18. George Bell (New Zealand)
Breaking into the All Blacks setup as a hooker at such a young age speaks volumes. Bell’s set-piece reliability and work in open play have already made him a player to watch.
17. Asher Opoku-Fordjour (England)
Powerful at scrum time and surprisingly mobile around the field, Opoku-Fordjour has all the attributes required to become a long-term England international. His ceiling remains exceptionally high.
16. Pedro Rubiolo (Argentina)
A tireless worker in the second row, Rubiolo combines physicality with impressive athleticism. The Argentine lock continues to grow in stature at both club and international level.
15. Fabian Holland (New Zealand)
The Dutch-born lock has adapted seamlessly to top-level rugby. Athletic, intelligent and relentless in defence, Holland has already shown he belongs on the international stage.
14. Dafydd Jenkins (Wales)
Still only 22, Jenkins has already captained Wales and Exeter Chiefs. His leadership qualities, lineout expertise and physical edge make him one of the most impressive young forwards in the game.
13. Max Jorgensen (Australia)
Jorgensen’s rugby intelligence sets him apart. Comfortable across the back three, he consistently appears in crucial moments and continues to develop into a key figure for the Wallabies.
12. Posolo Tuilagi (France)
At nearly 150kg, Tuilagi is one of the most unique athletes in world rugby. His combination of size, power and mobility makes him almost impossible to handle when fully fit.
11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)
Explosive, physical and clinical, Feyi-Waboso has quickly established himself as one of England’s most dangerous attacking weapons. When he gets the ball in space, defenders rarely enjoy the outcome.
10. Sam Prendergast (Ireland)
Ireland’s latest fly-half prodigy possesses all the tools required to become a world-class playmaker. His vision, kicking game and composure have already earned him significant attention.