14 Maro Itoje (England)

A mainstay of England and the British & Irish Lions, Maro Itoje has long set the standard for intensity and intelligence in the second row. His athleticism, lineout mastery, and relentless energy make him a nightmare for opponents. With over 100 Test appearances and multiple domestic and European titles with Saracens, Itoje’s influence extends far beyond his physical presence.

13 Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)

Ireland’s Tadhg Beirne is the definition of versatility. Whether at lock or in the back row, he brings relentless work rate, breakdown dominance, and game-changing impact. A standout at the 2023 World Cup and the 2025 Lions Player of the Series, Beirne’s adaptability has made him one of rugby’s most complete forwards.

12 Caelan Doris (Ireland)

Dynamic and balanced, Caelan Doris is the heartbeat of Ireland’s pack. Though injuries disrupted his 2025 season, he’s earned a reputation as one of the world’s most intelligent number eights. His leadership has grown steadily—captaining Ireland and earning a World Rugby Player of the Year nomination in 2024.

11 Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)

One of rugby’s most intimidating figures, Eben Etzebeth has anchored the Springbok pack for over a decade. With more than 130 caps, the towering lock has led with physical dominance and unrelenting competitiveness. A World Cup winner and record-holder for South Africa appearances, Etzebeth’s presence lifts those around him.

10 Will Jordan (New Zealand)

With a strike rate that would make any winger jealous — 43 tries in just 50 Tests — it’s no surprise Will Jordan is being spoken of as one of the world’s best fullbacks. Since his All Blacks debut in 2020, he’s been a constant try-scoring threat and recently celebrated his 50th cap against Australia.

Jordan’s positional sense, timing and speed make him a nightmare for opposition defences. At 27, he’s now entering his prime and still has time to add to his already incredible record.

9 Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)

Not many 22-year-olds can say they’ve redefined expectations — but Louis Bielle-Biarrey has. Whether it’s becoming Bordeaux’s all-time leading try scorer or breaking Six Nations records with eight tries in a single campaign, he’s doing things most wings only dream of.

His Champions Cup breakout came at 18, scoring a hat-trick on debut. Last season, he helped Bordeaux reach and win their first European final and was crowned Six Nations Player of the Tournament. Blistering pace and fearless play define him, but he also brings tactical awareness well beyond his years. France — and rugby — have a superstar on their hands.

8 Finn Russell (Scotland)

Despite a demanding club season and the toll of minor injuries, Finn Russell shone during the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour, reaffirming his status among rugby’s finest playmakers.

Scotland’s talisman was at the heart of the Lions’ attacking spark — his vision, creativity, and game management setting the tone in the biggest moments. A World Rugby Player of the Year nominee in 2024, Russell has evolved from maverick to master craftsman, blending flair with control to devastating effect.

Whether dazzling for Bath or dictating for Scotland, few can match his ability to shape a game. At his best, he’s not just a fly-half — he’s an artist with a rugby ball.

7 Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa)

Few players divide opinion like Cheslin Kolbe — but there’s no doubting his ability to turn a game on its head. Critics point to his modest domestic form in Japan, but Kolbe has delivered when it matters most.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner, he’s scored in finals, dominated Lions tours, and created magic for the Springboks time and again. Whether it’s burning defenders or producing clutch moments under pressure, Kolbe thrives on the big stage. In full flight, he remains one of the most exhilarating sights in world rugby.

6 Damian Penaud (France)

There are few players who exploded onto the European stage quite like Damian Penaud did this year. He tore through defences in the Champions Cup, breaking records with 14 tries — including six in a single game. His performances powered Bordeaux to their first European title, and he was rightly named Champions Cup Player of the Year.

But Penaud isn’t just a try machine. He blends power, agility and timing with an eye for the spectacular. At 29, he’s now a proven match-winner who delivers on the biggest occasions.

Like this:

Like Loading…