The 10 Best Rugby Players In The World Right Now

This is a tough one.

We truly are in a golden age of rugby right now. We say that because trying to assemble a list of the top 10 players in world rugby is almost impossible. The talent out there to pick from is incredible.

Some of the players that have missed out on our list include the likes of Aaron Smith, CJ Stander and Julian Savea. Trying to get our top 10 in order is also next to impossible. Outside of Beauden Barrett at the top of our list, who is the undisputed number one right now, it gets really difficult.

Anyway, let’s get down to it.

1. Beauden Barrett

The reigning World Player of the Year has excelled in the All Blacks ten jersey since Dan Carter’s international retirement and has been in incredible form for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby, guiding them to the championship last season. The undisputed number one in the world right now.

2. Owen Farrell

His consistency and accolades over the past couple of years mean he has to rank this high. A focal point for Saracens at ten who recently retained their Champions Cup title and a key member Eddie Jones’ England team that has won successive Six Nations titles. Whether at 10 or 12, Farrell is one of the world’s very best.

3. Kieran Read

Has struggled with injury in recent months but still very much an important part of the All Blacks success as captain. Steve Hansen will be hoping he can recover in time for the Lions tour this summer.

4. Conor Murray

Consistently the world’s best nine for a number of years now. Controls the game, has one of the best box-kicks in world rugby and is incredible in defence. When the big games come he rises to the occasion and lifts his game. The mark of a truly great player.

5. Dane Coles

We’re not quite sure what’s going on with the front-row at the moment as he battles back from concussion problems, but the Lions will be glad if he doesn’t make it to the Test series. Has single handedly redefined the role of a hooker. The complete package.

6. Maro Itoje

At 22 years of age Maro Itoje has already achieved more than most could in several lifetimes. A monstrous lock, who’s also comfortable in the back-row, he already looks to be the complete package. The scary thing is he’s only going to get better.

7. Billy Vunipola

The England and Saracens back-row was in the form of his life before he picked up a nasty knee injury against Argentina back in November. It took him a few games to get himself right, but is back now and better than ever. His MOTM performance against Clermont was a joy to watch. Nailed on now to start for the Lions this summer.

8. Ben Smith

Another man who might miss out on the Lions tour with injury, much to Warren Gatland’s delight. The complete fullback, reminiscent of All Blacks legend Christian Cullen. His ability to counter attack is unrivalled. A serious talent.

9. Brodie Retallick

The former World Player of the Year is one half of the best second-row in the world with Sam Whitelock. A giant among men, we simply cannot wait to see this man come up against Itoje this summer.

10. Sergio Parisse

Finally won himself a European trophy with Stade Francais this season, the Italian captain is almost like a one-man team at times.