The answer to this question is always something that’s up for debate amongst rugby fans, so to help make this a little easier, we’ve listed what can be considered to be some of the best men’s rugby union players in the world right now.
Will Jordan
This incredibly talented, pacey Kiwi winger was the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year last year, he’s now a regular starter for the All Blacks and is considered by many to be perhaps the best young player in the sport right now.
Maro Itoje
A household name in English rugby union, he’s been a regular for both England and the British & Irish Lions for the last five years and is one of Saracens’ best and most hardworking players, with no real weaknesses to his game. Moreover, he’s also still only 27.
Romain Ntamack
At just 23, Romain Ntamack has already established himself as an integral part of France’s recent good form, including their Six Nations win in 2022. He also won the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2019 and is another player that’s widely considered amongst the best of the new generation.
Lukhanyo Am
A core figure for both the Springboks and Sharks, Am is a commanding centre famed for his outstanding defensive abilities. He already has a Rugby World Cup to his name after playing a key part in South Africa’s tournament win in 2019.
Siya Kolisi
It’s hard to picture Springboks without Kolisi now, such is his influence on the side. The South Africa captain’s exceptional defensive play and leadership has been instrumental in fostering his nation’s recent success, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup and the series victory over the British & Irish Lions. He was also named ‘the most likeable captain in rugby’ by news site RugbyDump.
Ardie Savea
A powerful and determined loose forward, Savea is one of the first names on the team sheet for the All Blacks and at the moment is a pivotal part of their recent successes. His efforts on the international stage were also recently rewarded when he was named captain in the Rugby Championships.
Antoine Dupont
Despite being only 25, halfback Antoine Dupont is another player who has been hugely important in France’s recent fine form. He was named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2021 and it’s fair to say that such is his impressive abilities, he even helps those around him perform much better.
Eben Etzebeth
The towering, unmistakable figure of Eben Etzebeth is matched only by the equally commanding displays he puts in on the pitch to make him one of the world’s finest and toughest locks. Another household name, he is widely considered one of the best physical players on the planet.
