5 Breakout stars for the 2022-23 Premiership Rugby season

With the Premiership Rugby season just about to start, it seems like a good time to take a look at some of the players who I think are going to have brilliant years and launch themselves towards stardom in the league.

1.Tom Pearson

It might have been surprising for some fans when Tom Pearson was getting England attention at the end of 2021-22. But it was because Hill has begun to establish himself as one of the best young flankers in the country.

Pearson only began playing professional rugby last year and yet he has the work ethic and brilliant work at the breakdown to become a star, with this season being a big one for the young man.

2.Hugh Tizard

Having come up through the Harlequins academy, Hugh Tizard certainly made some enemies when he moved to cross town rivals Saracens this summer. But it is a brilliant move for Tizard.

With Nick Isiekwe out for the first few months of the season, Tizard can thrive alongside one of the best locks in the world. The 22 year old is a towering presence in the lineout and his ball carrying will be a big asset for Sarries.

3.Aaron Hinkley

One of the reasons why Northampton reached the semi finals in 2022 was because of the performances of Aaron Hinkley in the final games of the season. The 23 year old joined Northampton after a spell with the Exeter Chiefs, having come through the Gloucester academy.

Hinkley is finally getting the opportunity he deserves and looks a player in the mould of Sam Underhill. Everywhere on the pitch, Hinkley just seems desperate to get involved in play and makes a tonne of tackles. I see him being a big part of the Saints season this year.

4.Gabriel Ibitoye

This is one of the slightly different picks, as Ibitoye made his Premiership debut five years ago. After a spell with Montpellier and then Israeli side Tel Aviv Heat, Ibitoye is back in the premiership with the Bristol Bears.

The Harlequins academy graduate is incredibly fast and shifty, scoring 14 times for Harlequins in his time with the London side. His move away from England has failed to produce much success.

But Ibitoye is returning to one of the most talented back lines in the world and there will be plenty of try scoring opportunities thanks to the running of Ellis Genge, Semi Radradra and Charles Piatua.

5.Ted Hill

Captain of a club that is going through financial troubles is a massive responsibility for 23 year old Ted Hill. But he seems to be flourishing, particularly since taking the captaincy in 2020. Having already received two England caps back in 2018, this may not be a breakout year for Hill.

But having not featured in the England team in the last four years, I think that Hill will take another step forward. Steve Diamond seems to have this Worcester side in a good position despite the financial turmoil going on at the club. I think he will rely on Hill to lead from the front and I believe he will step up.

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