Northampton Saints lock JJ van der Mescht is a terrifying prospect for opposition defences. The 26-year-old, weighing 145kg and standing 6ft 7in, averages 12 carries per game for the Premiership leaders. His unique power is fuelled by an unusual diet of just one meal a day, a stark contrast to his previous 160kg frame.

Van der Mescht’s intermittent fasting routine, centred on a big steak, has helped him maintain mobility in Northampton's high-tempo system. Since arriving in the summer, he has filled the ball-carrying void left by Juarno Augustus, registering the league's highest percentage of dominant carries. His 100m sprint speed as a schoolboy explains his frightening acceleration.

The South African is thriving in his new community, having settled near Northampton after struggling for anonymity in Paris. While a Springboks call-up remains a career ambition, he insists on focusing on his own development first. With current Test locks like Eben Etzebeth in their 30s, his X-factor properties may soon attract Rassie Erasmus's attention.