Ranking the 7 Best Rugby Union Scrum-Halves Since 2000

The best in the business don’t just pass the ball—they dictate the game, frustrate opponents, and make their forwards look like geniuses.

Since 2000, we’ve seen some truly world-class No. 9s—men who’ve lifted the Webb Ellis Cup, tormented defences for over a decade, and made the impossible look routine. From metronomic pass masters to wild-haired chaos merchants, this list celebrates the very best to have worn the nine shirt in the professional era.

And yes—before you ask—Joost van der Westhuizen misses out only because his prime came in the ‘90s (though he’d walk into any era).

A true Springbok icon who played most of his best rugby in the 1990s, Joost set the standard for modern scrum-halves. His influence still echoes in the game today.

The textbook definition of a tactical genius—precise kicking, classy passing, and game control under pressure. A Super Rugby and Currie Cup stalwart, he captained the Springboks to the 2007 World Cup and won multiple individual accolades.

Peers, including Aaron Smith and Will Genia, have praised him as the “best No. 9 to ever play at a World Cup.” With 76 tests, numerous titles, and an ability to be “like having a coach on the field,” Fourie is a cerebral halfback legend.

Australia’s backbone through a golden era. A centurion with 110 caps, Tri-Nations and Rugby Championship winner, and a Super Rugby champion with the Reds. Justin Marshall once called him “best in the world for his position” at his peak—a testament to his tactical brain and silky execution.

A disruptive dynamo and the modern archetype of a high-impact scrum-half. Instrumental in the Springboks’ 2019 World Cup triumph—earning Player of the Match in the quarter-final and starting in the final—Faf then went on to help South Africa defend their crown in 2023.

That second win came in a nail-biting final against New Zealand, cementing his place as a two-time Rugby World Cup champion. His combative style, relentless energy, and game-changing defence have set a new blueprint for halfbacks worldwide.

A cunning playmaker in an era-defining English side. He featured in England’s 2003 World Cup triumph and famously set up Wilkinson’s winning drop goal with a critical break from the base. Also an iconic British & Irish Lion, known for flair, quick thinking, and big-match temperament.

An ironman of halfbacks—139 caps, integral to Australia’s 1999 World Cup victory, and a linchpin in Super Rugby glory. Renowned for durability, leadership, and that famous “Four more years, boys” sledge, Gregan was the heartbeat of the Wallabies for over a decade.

The definition of a modern maestro. Captain of France, elite at both 15s and sevens, and the only player to win both World Rugby Men's 15s and Sevens Player of the Year awards.

He boasts multiple Six Nations Player-of-the-Championship titles, Top 14 and Champions Cup triumphs, and even Olympic gold in rugby sevens. Dupont blends freakish athleticism with tactical mastery—earning comparisons to sporting icons outside rugby.

Dupont will no doubt top this list eventually.

The ultimate puppet master of the ruck. With 124 All Blacks caps, a 2015 World Cup win, and unmatched distribution finesse, he redefined the art of passing under pressure.

Smith’s vision, tempo control, and precision make him widely regarded as the greatest pure passer the game has ever seen.