Nine players who raised their stock during the Nations Championship
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On the up.
The inaugural Nations Championship delivered exactly what rugby fans had hoped for. New rivalries, unforgettable moments and, perhaps most importantly, a chance for several players to announce themselves on the international stage.
Some confirmed their world-class status. Others forced their way into Rugby World Cup conversations.
Here are nine players whose reputations emerged stronger after an impressive July campaign.
Ruben Love (New Zealand)
Handed the responsibility of starting at fly-half against Ireland, Love looked remarkably composed. The youngster showed he belongs at the highest level and gave New Zealand another exciting option at No.10.
Henry Pollock (England)
Pollock divided opinion at times, but there is no doubting his talent. The young back-row produced big moments throughout England’s campaign and continues to look like one of the brightest prospects in world rugby.
Sean Jansen (Ireland)
Jansen couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to international rugby. The back-row scored on his debut against Japan before earning the chance to face his native New Zealand at Eden Park. In the space of two weeks, he went from uncapped hopeful to a genuine option for Andy Farrell moving forward.
Joaquín Oviedo (Argentina)
Argentina unearthed another outstanding loose forward. Oviedo’s physicality, work rate and eye for the try line made him one of Los Pumas’ standout performers and one of the biggest winners of the tournament.
Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
Already regarded as one of the world’s finest forwards, Savea somehow found another level. The All Blacks captain was relentless at the breakdown, carried with authority and led by example as New Zealand completed a perfect campaign. If there was any debate over who is the world’s best back-row, Savea made a compelling case.
Jamie Osborne (Ireland)
Osborne once again showed why so many believe he is one of Ireland’s most versatile talents. Comfortable across the backline, he looked assured under the high ball, attacked with confidence and continued to strengthen his case as a long-term fixture in the national squad.
Jasper Wiese (South Africa)
Wiese has always been known for his power, but this Nations Championship felt like the tournament where he truly established himself as one of the world’s premier No. 8s. The Springbok was a relentless ball carrier throughout the competition, repeatedly getting South Africa over the gainline while also making his presence felt in defence. He capped off his campaign with a try against Wales and looked increasingly influential with every performance. As the Springboks continue to evolve, Wiese has cemented himself as one of the first names on Rassie Erasmus’ teamsheet.
Fraser McReight (Australia)
Although Australia endured mixed results, McReight’s performances were consistently impressive. Tireless around the park and influential at the breakdown, he remains one of the Wallabies’ most important players as they continue building towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup as tournament hosts.
Will Jordan (New Zealand)
Every tournament seems to reinforce the same point — Will Jordan simply scores tries. He finished among the competition’s leading scorers, became New Zealand’s all-time top try-scorer, and once again demonstrated his incredible ability to appear in the right place at the right time.
