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Who are the best players in world rugby right now? RUCK is putting together its ultimate XV, with every position up for grabs.
The team will be based on current form, not reputation, meaning players must earn their place through performances on the pitch.
As the season progresses, we will regularly update our selection to reflect who's playing well, who's making their mark and who's doing enough to make the cut.
We'll also keep track of how many weeks each player makes the team, with their running total shown in brackets.
Few players thrive in pressure situations quite like Willemse. Equally comfortable at fly-half or full-back, the Springbok offers versatility and composure when it matters most.
His last-minute penalty against Wales in 2022 and two drop goals against England showcased his match-winning ability.
Since helping South Africa lift the 2023 World Cup, he has continued to deliver, producing a standout performance against New Zealand in Wellington in 2025.
Reading the game is one thing, but Jordan's ability to turn those instincts into tries makes him particularly special.
The All Blacks superstar combines the vision of an elite full-back with the finishing instincts of a world-class winger. His support lines consistently put him in dangerous positions.
His acceleration and anticipation make him devastating when New Zealand find space. Few players are more lethal in open-field situations.
New Zealand's Will Jordan celebrates as he scores a try during the Autumn Nations Series between Ireland and New Zealand at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, Friday, November 8th, 2024 (Photo by Laszlo Geczo / Inpho)
Italy's midfield powerhouse has developed into one of the most important players in the national side. Following his Six Nations Player of the Tournament award in 2024, Menoncello took another significant step forward.
His physicality, defensive intelligence and ability to adapt across the backline make him an outstanding all-round centre.
Landmark victories for Italy have further strengthened his reputation, while his performances have established him as a genuine leader.
Consistency has been the defining feature of de Allende's career. The Springbok centre has played a central role in South Africa's World Cup successes, providing the physicality and organisation required at the highest level.
His powerful carries generate valuable front-foot ball, while his defensive work brings reliability to the midfield.
Starting every Test during the 2021 British and Irish Lions series demonstrated his importance, and he continues to be a dependable presence.
At just 23, Bielle-Biarrey has already established himself among the most dangerous finishers in world rugby.
The Bordeaux winger possesses extraordinary acceleration and an instinctive understanding of space, allowing him to turn promising attacking situations into tries.
His ability to beat defenders with pace makes him a nightmare to contain, while his continued development suggests there is considerably more to come. Few young players have made such an impression.
Jalibert has developed into one of the most exciting attacking fly-halves in international rugby. His ability to identify weaknesses in opposition defences and exploit space makes him a constant threat.
Returning to France's starting lineup in 2025 brought further opportunities to demonstrate his quality, and he has responded with impressive performances.
Combining creativity with attacking ambition, the Bordeaux playmaker is enjoying one of the strongest periods of his career.
Even after suffering setbacks, Dupont remains capable of producing moments that change matches entirely.
The 29-year-old scrum-half has previously established himself as the world's best, combining exceptional speed, vision and strength with remarkable creativity.
Whether representing Toulouse or France, he consistently finds solutions when conventional attacking options disappear. His ability to manufacture opportunities under pressure remains one of the biggest reasons he belongs among rugby's elite.
Nche has quietly become one of the most formidable loosehead props in international rugby.
His scrummaging strength is a defining feature of his game, allowing him to dominate opponents and provide a powerful platform for South Africa's forwards.
Recognition in World Rugby's Dream Team confirmed his standing among the game's best. Despite sometimes being overlooked, the Springbok has established himself as an essential component of Rassie Erasmus' pack.
Turnovers, physical dominance and relentless work around the breakdown have made Marx one of rugby's most influential hookers.
The Springbok brings an intensity that few forwards can replicate, regularly disrupting opposition possession while making significant contributions in contact.
His outstanding performances have earned recognition from former South African captains John Smit and Victor Matfield. Named World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year in 2025, he continues to set the benchmark.
Experience has helped du Toit become a remarkably efficient tighthead prop.
At 31, he combines powerful scrummaging with the technique and discipline required to perform consistently throughout demanding matches. His ability to operate on either side of the scrum provides valuable versatility.
His composure in difficult situations makes him a dependable option. With a potential return to South Africa approaching, his experience and durability remain significant assets.
Opponents rarely forget Etzebeth's presence. Whether competing in the air, carrying into contact or delivering dominant tackles, the Springbok lock consistently establishes physical authority.
His remarkable longevity has been matched by an extraordinary collection of achievements, including becoming South Africa's most-capped player.
Continuing to win titles while reaching historic milestones underlines his importance. Few forwards combine his experience, strength and competitive intensity quite as effectively.
Beirne's greatest strength is his ability to influence matches through intelligence rather than simply physical dominance.
His breakdown work, handling and positional awareness regularly create opportunities for his team. Those qualities were particularly evident during the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour.
He started every Test and earned Player of the Series honours. Delivering such performances on rugby's biggest stage confirms his status as an outstanding international forward.
Relentless is perhaps the best way to describe du Toit's approach to rugby. The 34-year-old continues to maintain an extraordinary standard.
His physical intensity and remarkable consistency allow him to perform throughout demanding Test matches.
His ability to deliver when the stakes are highest has become a defining characteristic of his career. Named World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year for a second time in 2024, he remains one of the game's most exceptional forwards.
Willis continues to produce performances that make his absence from international rugby increasingly difficult to understand.
The Toulouse flanker has won the Top 14 Player of the Year award twice consecutively, matching a record previously held only by Dupont. His Player of the Match performance in the final further demonstrated his outstanding quality.
Although England's overseas selection policy has kept him out since the 2023 World Cup, his form in France speaks for itself.
New Zealand's reliance on Savea became particularly apparent when injury prevented him from completing the South African series and subsequent Tests against the Springboks.
His influence on the All Blacks remains enormous, combining powerful carrying with relentless defensive work and leadership.
As New Zealand continue to rebuild their international momentum, having Savea available is crucial. His absence through a shoulder injury highlighted just how much the team depends on his contributions.
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