5 Pieter-Steph du Toit

Few players represent consistency and commitment better than Pieter-Steph du Toit.

His incredible 28 tackle performance in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final remains one of the greatest individual displays in recent memory.

Now a two time World Rugby Player of the Year at 33, du Toit continues to set the standard with his defensive work rate, physicality and rugby intelligence. Despite making only limited club appearances recently, his place among the world’s best remains beyond doubt.

4 Maxime Lucu

After Bordeaux Bègles’ Champions Cup triumph, Maxime Lucu has strengthened his case as the world’s best scrum-half.

A natural leader, he has built a superb partnership with Matthieu Jalibert, combining tactical intelligence, accurate kicking and tireless defensive work.

Lucu was named Player of the Match in the Champions Cup final against Leinster after producing a commanding display that helped Bordeaux Bègles retain the European title.

He has also impressed throughout the summer for France, playing a key role in two victories from three Nations Championship matches and showing the team can thrive even without Antoine Dupont.

3 Malcolm Marx

Malcolm Marx continues to set the benchmark for the modern hooker.

Powerful in contact, relentless around the field and outstanding at the breakdown, he remains one of the most complete forwards in world rugby.

After winning the World Rugby Player of the Year award, Marx became only the second hooker, after Keith Wood, to receive the men’s 15s honour and the first to do so since 2001.

2 Finn Russell

Few fly-halves blend creativity with control as effectively as Finn Russell. Once regarded purely as an unpredictable maverick, he has matured into a composed and influential playmaker who combines flair with authority.

During the summer, he became the Lions’ primary attacking organiser, directing their most dangerous moments with confidence and precision.

Whether representing Bath or Scotland, Russell has the ability to transform a game with a single decision, something he demonstrated once again against South Africa.

Although fitness issues interrupted his Nations Championship, he remains firmly among the best players in the world.

1 Louis Bielle-Biarrey

What more can be said about Louis Bielle-Biarrey? Right now, he looks like the brightest young talent in world rugby.

He scored 34 tries this season, including two in the Champions Cup final and four in the Six Nations finale, further cementing his reputation as one of the game’s most devastating attacking threats.

Still only 23 and already a back to back Six Nations Player of the Championship winner, his place at the top of this ranking is beyond question. He has all the qualities needed to become one of rugby’s all time greats.

Although he did not feature in the Nations Championship, he comfortably retains the number one spot.

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