STATEMENT: England star George Ford set for shock code switch

In what would be a significant return to his roots, Ford's father revealed that the plan is for the England star to finish his career with Oldham, his hometown club.

The 31-year-old is currently preparing for his third season with Sale Sharks, having joined from Leicester Tigers in 2022. Ford has previously played for Bath and Leeds Carnegie and has amassed 364 points in 91 appearances for England across the last decade.

George Ford's connection to rugby league runs deep, with his father, Mike, being a notable figure in the sport.

George started playing rugby league at the age of five and spent his early years at Saddleworth Rangers and Waterhead before joining the academies at Wigan Warriors and Bradford Bulls.

Mike Ford, now the managing director of Oldham after being part of a consortium that took over the club last year, discussed the plan on the League Express podcast.

He said, "We've mapped out his career. He's just turned 31, so we've planned what he will do at 32, 33, 34, and 35. When he's 35, he'll play for Oldham rugby."

Wales Online has meticulously ranked the top 30 rugby players in the world, showcasing the athletes who have not only risen to the pinnacle of the sport but also redefined what it means to be the best.

This list highlights the established legends, the consistent performers, and the emerging stars who are set to shape the future of rugby.

The list kicks off with Scotland's Blair Kinghorn at 30, who has thrived at Toulouse, showing his versatility and consistency. Following him, Ireland's James Lowe at 29 remains crucial for the Irish backline, offering power and precision on the wing.

Argentina's Pablo Matera at 28 is a formidable force in the back row, known for his physicality and leadership, particularly when Los Pumas pull off upsets. England's Ben Earl (27) has significantly upped his game, becoming an indispensable flanker for England. At 26, Scott Barrett brings immense value to the All Blacks as their captain and a key figure under coach Scott Robertson.

In the next tier, Cyril Baille (25) is vital to France's forward dominance, while Malcolm Marx (24) is a powerhouse for South Africa, known for his dynamic play. Siya Kolisi (23), a two-time World Cup-winning captain, may sometimes be overshadowed by his team's collective strength, but his individual prowess remains undeniable. 

Courtney Lawes (22) of England is recognised for his consistency and leadership, highlighted by his nominations for top player awards.

Lastly, Jordie Barrett (21) is proving he might be the best of the Barrett brothers, showcasing his versatility and skill for the All Blacks.

Tadhg Furlong (20) is one of the best tightheads in the world, known for his surprising agility and technical prowess.

Australia's Will Skelton (19) brings brute force and an imposing presence, enhancing the Wallabies' forward pack.

Scotland's Finn Russell (18) continues to impress with his mercurial talent, coupled with newfound consistency.

Ireland's Josh van der Flier (17), once World Player of the Year, is a tireless worker in the back row. South Africa's Ox Nche (16) is a prop who has consistently troubled opposing tightheads with his powerful scrummaging.

At 15, Maro Itoje remains England's defensive lynchpin, vital for their successes. Richie Mo'unga (14) may no longer be with the All Blacks, but his influence as one of the world’s top fly-halves is still felt.

Ireland’s trio of Bundee Aki (13), Jamison Gibson-Park (12), and Hugo Keenan (11) have been pivotal to their national side's tactics, with Aki's power in the midfield, Gibson-Park's quick distribution, and Keenan's reliability at full-back.

Entering the top 10, New Zealand's Will Jordan (10) is a try-scoring machine, boasting an impressive strike rate that marks him as one of the most dangerous players on the field.

Ireland’s Dan Sheehan (9) is the premier hooker in the world, combining the speed of a back with the strength of a forward. Cheslin Kolbe (8) continues to defy expectations with his agility and game-changing sidesteps, making him a consistent threat for South Africa. At 7, Ireland's Tadhg Beirne is a relentless presence on the field, known for his work rate and knack for turnovers.

France’s Damian Penaud (6) is the epitome of a clinical finisher, leading the try-scoring charts with ease. Caelan Doris(5), having taken on the Irish captaincy, has cemented his status as a leading contender for the Lions captaincy, thanks to his standout performances.

New Zealand’s Ardie Savea (4) has carried the mantle of the All Blacks’ best player, bringing intensity and leadership reminiscent of legends before him. 

Eben Etzebeth (3) is on track to become the greatest Springbok of all time, maintaining exceptional performance levels across his 124 caps. 

Pieter-Steph Du Toit (2), the 2019 World Player of the Year, is a consistent force for South Africa, delivering colossal efforts every time he dons the green and gold.

Finally, at number 1, Antoine Dupont of France is widely regarded as the best player in the world right now. His ability to control and influence games, along with his unmatched all-round talent, sets him apart as a once-in-a-generation player, leading both club and country to success.