The very best.

South African loosehead Tendai ‘the Beast’ Mtawarira reckons Leinster and Ireland prop Tadhg Furlong has made his mark on world rugby in the last 12 months, and can claim to be the best tighthead in northern hemisphere rugby.

Furlong enjoyed an incredible breakout campaign last season, becoming a regular for both Ireland and Leinster after bursting onto the scene against the All Blacks.

He has since gone on to start all three Tests for the Lions over the summer, and Mtawarira says he has huge respect for the “best tighthead up north.”

“I watched him in the British and Irish Lions series. He did very well. I have huge respect for him. He’s a great tighthead.” Mtawarira told RTE Sport

“He has made his mark as the best tighthead up north. He’s solid at set-piece time. He gets around the park, gets through the work.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge on Saturday.”

Can’t wait to see these two collide on Saturday.