Team of the Week: Champions Cup & EPCR Challenge Cup Semi-Finals

Bath continue their quest for a treble of trophies, as the blue, black and whites dispatched Edinburgh this past weekend for a place in the Challenge Cup Final. A stunning performance from Sam Underhill steered his side to victory, as the Somerset club racked up a 39-24 win in the Scottish capital. Lyon then got the better of Racing 92, as the Parisians lost their linchpin Owen Farrell to a head injury. Lyon's 29-15 victory booked their place in the Challenge Cup Final, in the hopes to re-create their 2022 title triumph.

Northampton Saints fought to the final whistle, to overcome the odds upon their away trip to Dublin. The green, black and gold army shocked Leinster in a 37-34 thriller, with revenge match from last year's Croke Park heartbreak going down as an all time Champions Cup belter. The all-French 'classique' closed out the weekend, as Bordeaux-Begles ensured that Toulouse would not stitch a seventh star upon their shirts. Toulouse have lost their Champions Cup crown, with Bordeaux out to reach European club rugby's summit for the first time in their history.

Buros delivered a composed and influential performance from fullback, injecting pace into Bordeaux’s attack with his sharp running lines and quick decision-making. He was fearless under the high ball, repeatedly claiming kicks in pressure moments and helping his side control territory. His ability to turn defence into attack proved vital, keeping Bordeaux on the front foot throughout the contest.

Freeman produced a statement performance on the biggest stage, crossing for a superb hat-trick against Leinster and firmly staking his claim for a starting spot on the British & Irish Lions tour. The Saints winger was electric with ball in hand, clinical in his finishing, and showed a sharp rugby brain throughout. Crucially, he outshone his opposite number James Lowe — another Lions contender — in both attack and work rate, delivering a performance that could have serious international implications this Summer.

Barassi wasted no time making his presence felt, gliding past defenders in the opening stages and setting the tone for a dominant outing. His movement off the ball was intelligent throughout, consistently picking the right angles to trouble Bordeaux's defence. He capped off a polished display with a deserved second-half try, finishing off one of several well-timed bursts through the line.

Hutchinson delivered a composed and reliable showing in the Saints’ midfield, linking play smoothly and providing a steady defensive presence throughout. While not the flashiest performance, his control and decision-making were key to Northampton’s rhythm in attack. If he doesn’t get the Lions call-up, he looks set to play a leading role for Scotland on their summer tour, with fixtures against the Māori All Blacks, Fiji, and Samoa offering the perfect stage for him to shine.

One of the brightest young stars in the game, Bielle-Biarrey was pivotal in Bordeaux’s semi-final triumph, scoring two vital tries to help secure their place in the Champions Cup final. His first came from a well-timed support line, while the second showcased his acceleration and finishing class out wide. Constantly threatening with ball in hand, he tormented the defence throughout and proved exactly why he’s considered one of the most exciting wings in world rugby.

Smith delivered a composed and mature performance at fly-half, steering the Saints with confidence and slotting 12 crucial points from the tee. While his kicking kept the scoreboard ticking, it was his defensive effort that truly stood out — repeatedly fronting up and disrupting Leinster’s attacking flow. In a head-to-head with Sam Prendergast, Smith came out on top, strengthening his case for inclusion in the Lions squad with a well-rounded display under pressure.

In a losing effort, Ali Price was still the standout performer for Edinburgh, showcasing his sharp game management and quick-thinking throughout the match. His tactical kicking and tempo control were vital in keeping his team in the contest, and he provided excellent service to his backline. With a wealth of experience, Price could be a valuable asset to the Lions, though he is more likely to feature for Scotland in their summer tour, where his leadership and composure will be crucial.

Iyogun was a key figure in the Saints’ physical forward play, standing strong in the scrum and holding his own against the veteran Leinster prop Tadhg Furlong. His scrummaging was solid throughout, but it was his quick thinking at the breakdown that caught the eye — he expertly nicked the ball at an early ruck to give his side a much-needed turnover. With his relentless work rate and contribution to the Saints’ dominant front-row performance, Iyogun was a standout in both set-piece and open play.

A commanding presence for Bath, Dunn played a pivotal role in their forward effort. His first-half try came from a powerful driving maul, where his sheer determination forced his way over the line, capping off a period of sustained pressure from the visitors. Just before making way after 57 minutes, Dunn added another try and put Bath back in the driver’s seat. His contributions in both attack and defence were vital to his team’s overall journey through to the final.

On a huge stage for the 23-year-old Spanish prop, Merkler stepped up to the occasion with a performance that belied his years. In a 32-minute barnstormer, he was a force in the scrum, consistently putting pressure on the opposition and dominating his opposite numbers. His physicality and relentless energy were key factors in Bordeaux’s forward dominance, and his work rate around the park further highlighted his potential as a future star in the front row.

Coles was a standout in the second row, causing constant disruption to Leinster’s lineout and providing plenty of physicality in contact. His work at the set-piece was invaluable, and he carried with intent around the park, always looking to make an impact. While his overall performance was sharp and influential, the bizarre yellow card for the disallowed try from Leinster was the only blemish on an otherwise commanding display. With his strong form, Coles is pushing for a spot on the Lions tour, but if he misses out, he’s likely to feature for England on their summer tour to Argentina and the USA.

Guillard’s performance was a revelation, marking him as one of the most exciting young locks in French rugby. The 22-year-old was a powerhouse in the set-piece, combining his raw strength with impressive technical ability. His physicality at the breakdown and composure under pressure caught the eye, helping Lyon maintain control in a fiercely contested battle. Guillard’s energy and athleticism suggest he’s ready to make the leap to the international stage, and with the France-New Zealand summer tour on the horizon, he’ll be one to keep a close eye on in the coming months.

After undergoing ankle surgery, Underhill delivered his best performance since returning to action, firmly reasserting himself as one of the most dynamic back row forwards in the game. The England international was a constant menace with his tireless work rate, making 14 brilliant carries and a staggering 13 tackles, while also getting on the scoresheet with a well-earned try. His all-round performance earned him Player of the Match honors and has certainly put him back in the conversation for a late Lions call-up.

Pollock has well and truly earned the hype after another electric performance that combined grit, flair, and plenty of swagger. His try was a beauty, as he effortlessly sidestepped RG Snyman and sent Prendergast to the deck before finishing with style. After the final whistle, he made sure to give Leinster fans a memorable celebration, complete with a cheeky Conor McGregor strut. Pollock’s performance has certainly caught the eye of Lions selectors, and whether he makes the tour or not, he’ll be a key figure for England on their upcoming summer tour. Expect to see a lot more of him on the international stage.

Jelonch made a thunderous impact off the bench, reminding everyone just how crucial he is to Toulouse’s pack. Back to his best after a period of injury, the French international was everywhere, bringing his trademark energy, physicality, and relentless work rate. Despite Toulouse's loss, Jelonch left it all on the line, driving forward with ball in hand and making crucial tackles when needed. His return to form will be a huge boost for both Toulouse and France as they prepare for the challenges ahead.