Form is the primary measure when assessing the best players in world rugby right now, but sustained excellence still carries weight. This list reflects the standout performers shaping the current landscape.
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One player, however, rose above the rest. After a remarkable Six Nations campaign, an Italian star claims the top spot following a performance that helped secure Italy’s first-ever victory over England.
10 Ox Nché
Springbok prop Ox Nché has built his reputation on formidable strength and exceptional scrummaging technique. Compact and explosive, his low centre of gravity gives him a distinct advantage against taller opponents and makes him one of the most difficult looseheads to shift at the set piece.
His influence extends well beyond the scrum. Nché contributes with relentless defensive work and surprising mobility in open play, repeatedly proving his value around the field. Having become the first prop ever nominated for World Rugby’s Player of the Year award, he could consider himself unfortunate to rank only tenth here.
9 Matthieu Jalibert
Followers of the Top 14 have long recognised Matthieu Jalibert’s immense ability, but his recent Six Nations form before injury has showcased it to a wider audience. Composed and tactically astute, he has stepped seamlessly into the fly-half role and threatens defences with crisp distribution and well-timed offloads.
The past year has marked a clear resurgence in his career. Recalled to start against England in the 2025 Six Nations following Romain Ntamack’s suspension, it was Jalibert’s first appearance in France’s starting XV since declining a bench role during the 2024 Autumn Nations Series. Since that moment, he has not only re-established himself but strengthened his standing significantly.
8 Malcolm Marx
The modern benchmark for hookers now belongs to Malcolm Marx. Dynamic in contact, relentless in his work rate and destructive at the breakdown, he has redefined expectations of the position.
Crowned World Rugby Player of the Year, he became only the second hooker after Keith Wood to claim the men’s 15s award and the first since 2001. Starting 11 of South Africa’s 14 Tests last season and scoring five tries, Marx played a central role in a campaign that saw the Springboks retain the Rugby Championship while losing just twice.
7 Pieter-Steph du Toit
Recognition inevitably follows effort, and few players work harder than Pieter-Steph du Toit. His extraordinary 28-tackle performance in the 2023 World Cup final remains one of the most remarkable individual displays in the sport’s history.
Now a two-time World Rugby Player of the Year at 33, he continues to embody consistency, intelligence and resilience. Defensively astute and relentless in physical exchanges, du Toit epitomises South Africa’s competitive edge. Although his recent club appearances have been limited, his influence and legacy at the highest level remain unquestionable.
6 Ardie Savea
Ardie Savea’s move to Moana Pasifika carried enormous symbolic significance, and he ensured it was matched by performance. His leadership elevated standards within the squad, inspired landmark victories and earned him Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year honours.
Explosive, tireless and fiercely competitive, Savea remains central to the All Blacks’ identity. Even with his move to Japan altering perceptions slightly, his quality and influence remain undeniable.
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