Duhan van der Merwe and Nolann Le Garrec were two dazzling magicians at a memorable Six Nations but who else deserves an accolade? From the best try to the best player and more, NIK SIMON reveals his picks

A blockbuster Six Nations came to an end and Ireland were crowned champions once again.

Andy Farrell’s side survived a nail-biting clash against challenging Scotland to retain their title, forcing England to settle for third place after their pulsating defeat to France.

England narrowly lost in Lyon after Thomas Ramos kicked a penalty in the final minute, although their two bonus points saw them finish above Scotland.

But which players stood out during the tournament and who scored the best try?

Here, Mailsport‘s NIK SIMON reveals his choices…

Best effort

Duhan van der Merwe

No one in Murrayfield could believe their eyes when Duhan van der Merwe fired down the left wing against England. A man his size shouldn’t be able to move that fast. It was a display of freakish athleticism that Jonah Lomu would have approved of.

Best atmosphere

England vs Ireland

Twickenham has been a sad old place in recent years, but it came alive when Marcus Smith scored his winning drop goal. There was first class entertainment at half time with Rag ‘N’ Bone Man – as opposed to a cheap DJ – but above all a winning feeling.

Moment of magic

Nolann Le Garrec

It was a kiss-off moment for the chef when Cardiff replacement Antoine Dupont completed an incredible 40-yard back pass. It was a time to silence the BBC commentators who claimed it was a fluke and embrace the kind of individual skills that will inspire the next generation.

A stupid blow

Paolo Garbisi’s missed kick

Every neutral player in the rugby world prayed that Garbisi would land his final kick against France to seal a famous victory. So it felt like the Gods had conspired against him when the ball fell off the tee and he had to rush his kick to avoid getting a timeout. He missed, meaning Italy had to settle for a draw.

Controversy

Scotland rejected the attempt

For five agonizing minutes the video refereeing team struggled their way through the review process before Sam Skinner’s final try against France was ruled out. It was a questionable decision.

Dear ambassador

Jamie George

Press conferences can be soulless, but Jamie George’s Thursday evening sessions were brilliant. England’s new skipper was a breath of fresh air: open, honest and committed. The way he spoke about his mother’s death in Edinburgh was very moving.

Dear young man

Jack Crowley

The young number 10 assured the Irish that there is life after Johnny Sexton. He slid straight into the side with a calm assurance and dominated opponents until his team slipped up against England. Tommaso Menoncello, the center of Italy, also deserves a special mention.

PLAYER OF TOURNAMENT

Bundee Aki

The center of Connacht is a threat. Full of power and pace, he ensures that Ireland continually crosses the winning line. He excelled throughout the tournament.