Cohen - ready to star in 2003.

By Andrew Baldock, PA Sport Rugby Union Correspondent

BEN COHEN (England)

Northampton wing Cohen entered world-class territory with his magnificent performances during England's autumn Test series when he scored tries against all three Twickenham visitors - New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.

A powerful runner at 6ft 1in tall and approaching 16 stone, Cohen has now amassed 19 international touchdowns from just 21 starts. Only Rory Underwood (49), Jeremy Guscott (30) and current team-mate Will Greenwood (21) have scored more tries for England.

His outstanding defensive qualities were also highlighted in the autumn, notably through a stunning try-saving tackle on New Zealand full-back Ben Blair. Had Cohen not made it, then England would undoubtedly have lost the game.

England possess quality wings in abundance - Dan Luger, James Simpson-Daniel and Phil Christophers, to name three - but 24-year-old Cohen is currently way ahead of the rest.

GORDON ROSS (Scotland)

Fly-half Ross has proved one of the success stories in this season's Zurich Premiership, spearheading Leeds' outstanding campaign as they push for a top-three finish and the play-offs.

An astute thinker and quality tactical kicker, Ross has also provided Scotland coach Ian McGeechan with real options in the pivotal number 10 position.

The 24-year-old started two of Scotland's autumn Tests - significantly, against South Africa, when McGeechan's men triumphed 21-6 - and while he might not possess Gregor Townsend-type flair, Ross knows how to control a game behind his forwards.

He can expect opportunities to shine on the Six Nations stage this season, and his progress will be monitored with interest.

RHYS WILLIAMS (Wales)

When it comes to exponents of rugby union's counter-attacking art, there are few finer players than 22-year-old Cardiff full-back Williams.

His blistering pace and eye for the gap is wonderfully destructive, causing Jason Robinson-style panic to spread throughout opposition defences.

Has bounced back superbly from a difficult season two years ago, when his confidence crashed, and was one of Wales' top performers throughout the autumn programme which featured appointments with New Zealand, Fiji and Canada.

With Kevin Morgan back to fitness and a strong challenger for the Wales number 15 jersey, Williams could find himself on wing duty during the Six Nations, but either way, coach Steve Hansen must utilise his game-breaking ability.

BRIAN O'DRISCOLL (Ireland)

The rugby world knows everything that it needs to know about O'Driscoll following his exploits with Ireland and the Lions.

One of the planet's premier centres, his influence on Ireland's Test team has grown with every game. But not only is O'Driscoll their main attacking weapon, he could start this season's Six Nations Championship as captain.

O'Driscoll the skipper is a far lesser-known quantity, but with Keith Wood still on the road back to full fitness, then Leinster's midfield talisman might well lead Ireland out against Scotland at Murrayfield.

All indications are though, that O'Driscoll will revel in such responsibility, if required. Failure is not a word that enters his thought process.

IMANOL HARINORDOQUY (France)

The whole of French rugby will hope that gifted back-row man Harinordoquy does not suffer from second-season syndrome this term.

Harinordoquy's impact on last year's Six Nations Championship was immense, displaying an ability and maturity way beyond his 22 years as he broke into the French team and then rose to every challenge that presented itself.

The undoubted star Six Nations newcomer, Pau's game-shaping number eight is on course to be a pivotal figure during World Cup 2003, when France will fancy their chances in the quest for global glory.

First up though, it's England at Twickenham, when France, injuries and form permitting, will target a repeat showing from their Harinordoquy/Olivier Magne/Serge Betsen back-row unit after they demolished the red-rose brigade in Paris last term.

CRISTIAN STOICA (Italy)

The Italians face a Herculean task to avoid finishing bottom of the Six Nations pile for yet another season, although three of their games - against Wales, Ireland and France - are at home.

Under new coach John Kirwan, they are looking to make strides in the right direction, but any hint of Italian success will depend on their most-experienced players like Stoica, Diego Dominguez, Alessandro Troncon and Mauro Bergamasco hitting top form.

Powerful centre Stoica's stint in the English Premiership was a short-lived one with Gloucester, but he remains a quality all-round player.

Strong in defence and a potent attacker, Italy must look to him in terms of marshalling their back division.