The United Rugby Championship have today released their Elite XV for the 2022/23 season. 

Comprised of six Irish players, four South African, two Scottish, two Italian and one Welsh, the Elite XV is based on the player’s performance across the full season as voted for by the media. 

Starting with the front row, Irish international duo Dan Sheehan (Leinster Rugby) and Finlay Bealham (Connacht Rugby) are joined by Springbok international and Stormers captain Steven Kitshoff. 

In the secondrow, Connacht youngster Niall Murray capped what has been a remarkable season with a well-deserved nomination. Joining him is Italian international Federico Ruzza, who has been a pillar of strength for Benetton in what was a strong showing from the Italian side this season. 

Forming a menacing-looking backrow, Tongan international and sole Welsh representative Vaea Fifita (Scarlets) partners Irish duo Gavin Coombes (Munster Rugby) and Scott Penny (Leinster Rugby). 

Pulling the string in the halfbacks are speed demon Grant Williams (Cell C Sharks) and the calming influence of Ross Byrne (Leinster Rugby). 

Getting the go-forward ball in the backline, Stormer's centre Dan Du Plessis continues his push for Springbok consideration following yet another consistent season in Cape Town. Lining up outside him is Scottish international Sione Tuipulotu (Glasgow Warriors), who has become one of the best number 13s in the game this season. 

Completing the squad is a lethal back-three combination of Simone Gesi (Zebre), Darcy Graham (Edinburgh) and Kurt-Lee Arendse (Vodacom Bulls).

Here is your 22/23 Elite XV ⬇️

x3️⃣ @LeinsterRugby
x2️⃣ @TheStormers
x2️⃣ @ConnachtRugby
x1️⃣ @BenettonRugby
x1️⃣ @Scarlets_Rugby
x1️⃣ @MunsterRugby
x1️⃣ @ZebreParma
x1️⃣ @SharksRugby
x1️⃣ @EdinburghRugby
x1️⃣ @BlueBullsRugby
x1️⃣ @GlasgowWarriors #URC | #URCAwards

— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) May 11, 2023