Sam
Warburton has had an incredible year. In the summer of 2011, at the age
of only 22, he was asked to captain his country, leading Wales into the
Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. The team's scintillating progression
through the tournament reached a nail-biting height as Wales met France
in the semi-final. With a nation's hopes resting on his shoulders,
Warburton made 'that' tackle on Vincent Clerc and was shown the red
card. Outcry ensued, and the Wales captain experienced great lows
despite being named Player of the Tournament by many commentators.
Picking himself up from the suffocating media attention, Warburton was
determined to rectify Welsh fortunes and strode into the 6 Nations.
Battling injuries he led Wales to a magnificent Six Nations. This is his
moment. This is his Grand Slam year.