Best XV in World Rugby Right Now — No Antoine Dupont

Some selections are impossible to ignore, while others come down to form, influence, and consistency on the biggest stage.

From established World Cup winners to rising stars making their mark, this team reflects the players setting the standard in world rugby right now.

The scorer of the decisive penalty in the recent Six Nations, Thomas Ramos earns his place in this squad through the quality and consistency of his kicking game.

Even without that unforgettable moment in Paris, he stood out throughout the tournament. His goal kicking was remarkably accurate and his creativity from fullback gave France an extra attacking edge.

He also shifted to fly-half against Italy and looked completely at ease, further underlining his versatility. Performances like those make his selection fully deserved.

Few players divide opinion like Cheslin Kolbe, but when the pressure is greatest, his influence is impossible to ignore.

Questions may still surround his club form in Japan, yet his performances for South Africa provide a much clearer reflection of his quality.

A two time World Cup winner, Kolbe has delivered in finals, troubled the British and Irish Lions, and produced defining moments on the biggest stage.

Whether attacking in space or defending under pressure, he consistently rises to the occasion. His upcoming move to the Stormers should also give him more opportunities to showcase his talent at the highest level.

Huw Jones combines sharp pace with excellent timing, making him a constant danger in attack. His awareness and ability to exploit space have turned him into a key performer for both club and country.

Earlier in his career, he was recognised mainly for his attacking ability, but the improvements he has made defensively have added another dimension to his game.

His displays during the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia highlighted his class once again, as he regularly influenced matches through both his finishing and creative play.

Italy will look back positively on their Six Nations campaign, despite the disappointment of slipping up against Wales in the final round.

Victories over Scotland and England, including their first ever win against the latter, highlighted the progress they made during the tournament.

At the heart of that improvement was Tommaso Menoncello.

Powerful carrying and physicality made him one of the standout midfielders in the competition. He ranked among the top five in several carrying statistics and finished fourth for total jackals, demonstrating both his attacking threat and defensive impact.

What more can be said about Louis Bielle-Biarrey? He looks like the brightest talent in world rugby right now.

With 34 tries this season, including two in the Champions Cup final and four in the Six Nations finale, he appears almost impossible to stop.

Still only 22, and already a back to back Six Nations Player of the Championship winner, there is no doubt about his place in this team. He has all the qualities to become one of the greatest players the sport has seen.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu may have a strong case here too.

Creative fly-halves rarely combine flair and control as effectively as Finn Russell. Once viewed purely as a maverick, he has developed into a composed and authoritative playmaker who balances imagination with leadership.

During the summer, he became the Lions’ primary creative force, directing their most dangerous attacks with clarity and ambition.

Whether guiding Bath or leading Scotland in high pressure Tests, Russell has the ability to change a game with a single decision.

Following Bordeaux-Bègles’ recent Champions Cup triumph, Maxime Lucu has established himself as the standout scrum-half in world rugby.

A natural leader for his club, he has formed an outstanding partnership with Matthieu Jalibert. Lucu combines precise kicking with excellent tactical awareness and relentless defensive work.

He earned Player of the Match honours in the Champions Cup final victory over Leinster, helping Bordeaux-Bègles secure back to back European titles.

Earlier in April, he was also named Man of the Match against Dupont’s Toulouse, further reinforcing his world class form.

Springbok prop Ox Nche has built his reputation on immense power and elite scrummaging technique.

Compact and explosive, his lower centre of gravity gives him a clear advantage against taller opponents. Beyond the set piece, he contributes through tireless defence and impressive mobility around the field.

He also became the first prop to receive a nomination for World Player of the Year in 2025.

Malcolm Marx has become the benchmark for hookers in the modern game.

Dominant in contact, relentless in his work rate, and destructive at the breakdown, he has redefined expectations for the position.

After being crowned World Rugby Player of the Year, he became only the second hooker after Keith Wood to win the men’s 15s award, and the first since 2001.

Leicester Tigers tighthead Joe Heyes has emerged over the past year as one of the leading players in his position.

His scrummaging has improved significantly and is now one of the strongest aspects of his game, which remains essential for any top level prop.

Alongside his set piece work, he continues to contribute effectively around the field and was one of the few England players who consistently impressed during the Six Nations.

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One of rugby’s most intimidating figures, Eben Etzebeth has anchored the Springbok pack for more than a decade.

With over 130 caps, the towering lock has led through physical dominance and relentless competitiveness.

A World Cup winner and South Africa’s most capped player, his presence consistently raises the level of those around him.

His season appears to be over following an injury suffered in April, but few would doubt his ability to return stronger.

There seems to be very little Tadhg Beirne cannot do.

Whether operating in the second row or at blindside flanker, he remains central to Andy Farrell’s Ireland side.

He led the Six Nations in lineout steals, topped the competition for jackals and turnovers won, and also ranked among the leading tacklers.

His relentless work rate provided a platform for Ireland throughout the tournament.

Few leaders in world sport possess the influence of Siya Kolisi.

Rising from humble beginnings to become South Africa’s first black captain, he lifted the Rugby World Cup in both 2019 and 2023.

His leadership extends far beyond rugby, representing hope and unity for millions.

On the field, Kolisi combines relentless effort with calm authority, while his story and character continue to shape a legacy that reaches beyond the sport itself.

Recognition inevitably follows effort, and few players embody that more than Pieter-Steph du Toit.

His 28 tackle performance in the 2023 World Cup final remains one of the greatest individual displays the game has seen.

Now a two time World Rugby Player of the Year at 33, he continues to represent consistency, resilience, and intelligence in defence.

Relentless in contact and tactically sharp, he perfectly reflects South Africa’s competitive identity.

Even with limited recent club appearances, his standing at the top level remains unquestioned.

Ardie Savea’s move to Moana Pasifika carried significant symbolic importance, and he backed it up with exceptional performances.

His influence raised standards within the squad, inspired historic victories, and earned him the Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year award.

Explosive, tireless, and inspirational, he remains central to the identity of the All Blacks.

Although his subsequent move to Japan may count slightly against him, his quality and influence remain undeniable.