1 — Asher Opoku-Fordjour

Despite being a natural tighthead, his ability to cover both sides of the scrum — at just 21 — makes him even more valuable. The Sale prop has enjoyed a meteoric rise, earning a Lions training call-up in June 2025, filling in as injury cover, then returning to England duties for a successful tour of Argentina. A first Test start against the USA capped off a remarkable run of early-career achievements.

2 — George Bell

A former Baby Blacks standout who came through an interrupted U20 pathway, he made his All Blacks debut in July 2024 and marked the occasion with a late try against Fiji. Only 23, he continues to develop into a dynamic, mobile hooker with plenty more growth ahead.

3 — Zachary Porten

Combining traditional front-row power with an impressive engine, this Springbok prop anchors the scrum and still contributes heavily in open play. His recent outings against Japan and Italy demonstrated both physicality and an ability to influence the game beyond set-piece.

4 — Fabian Holland

Fresh off winning World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year, the athletic young lock covers the pitch with giant strides and tireless energy. His work at the breakdown, defensive consistency, and growing influence with the All Blacks make his rise — from Dutch-born dreamer to Test lock — nothing short of extraordinary.

5 — Pedro Rubiolo

Uncompromising in contact and relentless at the breakdown, the Argentine lock mixes bruising defence with strong carrying. His form this autumn for Los Pumas has underlined his value in both structured systems and the messy, chaotic moments where tough forwards thrive.

6 — Peter Lakai

A dynamic force in the All Blacks back row, his mix of strength, agility, and finishing ability lets him influence games all over the park. He made his Test debut in October 2024 and has looked completely at ease ever since — a clear sign of how highly he’s rated.

7 — Henry Pollock

Fearless at the breakdown and tireless in defence, this openside flanker’s turnover ability and game-reading make him a constant menace. His rapid domestic rise — from Champions Cup standouts to Premiership Breakthrough Player of the Season — mirrors his ascent through England’s age-group and senior pathways. Records, tries, and big-match performances continue to flow for a player who seems to thrive under pressure. A Lions call-up in 2025 further highlighted his extraordinary trajectory.

8 — Chandler Cunningham-South

Bringing relentless intensity, heavy carrying, and smart work at the breakdown, he offers 80 minutes of effort wherever he plays across the back row. England have begun moulding him into a long-term No.8 option, and he’s already delivering — including tries on his first Test start in 2024 and again during the 2025 Six Nations, where he even covered lock from the bench before scoring twice in Cardiff.

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