Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth stood down from rugby for 'personal reasons'

There’s no guarantee the most capped Springbok of all time, with 137 Test appearances, will be back in action when the Sharks wrap up their United Rugby Championship tour next week.

The Sharks are next in action at home against Ulster on October 17, and whether Etzebeth features in that clash could hinge on the timing of his second child’s arrival. The Springbok lock revealed this week, during the launch of his book Unlocked in Goodwood, that his second child is expected on Thursday.

Speaking after Thursday’s Sharks team announcement, coach John Plumtree addressed Etzebeth’s potential availability due to personal reasons.

For now, the Sharks will rely on their current squad as they take on Leinster, with Etzebeth’s return hanging in the balance.

These ten are doing exactly that. Whether through raw speed, relentless work ethic, or quiet leadership, each has left a mark on 2025 and the years before that.

There were plenty of contenders and a lot of top talent has had to miss out on this list.

It’s not just about stats — it’s about impact. Here's a look at the top 10 male players lighting up world rugby right now

With a strike rate that would make any winger jealous — 43 tries in just 50 Tests — it’s no surprise Will Jordan is being spoken of as one of the world’s best fullbacks. Since his All Blacks debut in 2020, he’s been a constant try-scoring threat and recently celebrated his 50th cap against Australia.

Jordan’s positional sense, timing and speed make him a nightmare for opposition defences. At 27, he’s now entering his prime and still has time to add to his already incredible record.

Not many 22-year-olds can say they’ve redefined expectations — but Louis Bielle-Biarrey has. Whether it’s becoming Bordeaux’s all-time leading try scorer or breaking Six Nations records with eight tries in a single campaign, he’s doing things most wings only dream of.

His Champions Cup breakout came at 18, scoring a hat-trick on debut. Last season, he helped Bordeaux reach and win their first European final and was crowned Six Nations Player of the Tournament. Blistering pace and fearless play define him, but he also brings tactical awareness well beyond his years. France — and rugby — have a superstar on their hands.

Despite a demanding club season and the toll of minor injuries, Finn Russell shone during the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour, reaffirming his status among rugby’s finest playmakers.

Scotland’s talisman was at the heart of the Lions’ attacking spark — his vision, creativity, and game management setting the tone in the biggest moments. A World Rugby Player of the Year nominee in 2024, Russell has evolved from maverick to master craftsman, blending flair with control to devastating effect.

Whether dazzling for Bath or dictating for Scotland, few can match his ability to shape a game. At his best, he’s not just a fly-half — he’s an artist with a rugby ball.

Few players divide opinion like Cheslin Kolbe — but there’s no doubting his ability to turn a game on its head. Critics point to his modest domestic form in Japan, but Kolbe has delivered when it matters most.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner, he’s scored in finals, dominated Lions tours, and created magic for the Springboks time and again. Whether it’s burning defenders or producing clutch moments under pressure, Kolbe thrives on the big stage. In full flight, he remains one of the most exhilarating sights in world rugby.

There are few players who exploded onto the European stage quite like Damian Penaud did this year. He tore through defences in the Champions Cup, breaking records with 14 tries — including six in a single game. His performances powered Bordeaux to their first European title, and he was rightly named Champions Cup Player of the Year.

But Penaud isn’t just a try machine. He blends power, agility and timing with an eye for the spectacular. At 29, he’s now a proven match-winner who delivers on the biggest occasions.

It was in Ireland — not New Zealand — where Jordie Barrett proved he’s truly world-class across any environment.

During a six-month stint with Leinster, Barrett stood out even among their stacked squad, scoring tries, winning awards, and helping them to a URC title. His versatility is a coach’s dream, playing 10, 12, 15 and slotting in wherever needed.

Add that to his 50+ caps for the All Blacks, and it’s clear why he’s so highly rated. Intelligent, physical and composed, Barrett has grown from a utility player into a game-controlling leader.

Hookers aren’t supposed to score hat-tricks or lead teams from the front like Dan Sheehan does. After six months out injured, he returned in early 2025, scored in the Six Nations opener, and ended up captaining Ireland to a Triple Crown. His dynamism around the park is unmatched for a front-rower — whether it’s linking play or dotting down crucial tries. On the British & Irish Lions tour to Australia, he crossed the line in both Tests to help clinch the series. Sheehan has become a cornerstone of Irish rugby, redefining the role of the modern hooker with power and poise.

One of the hardest workers in rugby history, Pieter-Steph du Toit doesn’t need flair — he wins games with grit, intelligence and unrelenting effort. In the 2023 World Cup Final, he made 28 tackles against New Zealand to lead South Africa to glory.

That kind of performance defines his career. A two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, du Toit continues to dominate at 33 with his trademark work rate and leadership. His legacy is secure among the greats, and yet he still plays with the hunger of a newcomer. Few can match his heart — or his tackle count.

A move to Moana Pasifika was never just symbolic — Ardie Savea came to compete, and he’s done exactly that. Last season, he led the team to landmark wins and was named Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year with games to spare. Savea’s blend of explosiveness and calm leadership is unmatched, and he remains a talisman for the All Blacks as well. His mission to uplift Pasifika rugby hasn’t slowed his personal dominance one bit. Whether it’s beating defenders or lifting teammates, Savea influences every facet of the game.

Even sidelined with an ACL injury, Antoine Dupont’s grip on the rugby world remains tight. His list of achievements is staggering — World Rugby Player of the Year in both 15s (2021) and Sevens (2024), three-time Six Nations Player of the Tournament, and an Olympic gold medallist.

Dupont is the only player to ever win both major global rugby awards, underlining his unmatched versatility. With five Top 14 titles, two European Cups, and now a sevens legacy, he’s conquered every format. Although he hasn’t played since the Six Nations, there’s no doubt — Dupont is still the best in the world.