The 10 best scrum-halves in the world (Ranked)

While reputation and past achievements still carry weight, this ranking is based primarily on current form and overall influence on matches in today’s game.

From experienced World Cup winners to explosive young playmakers, these are the 10 scrum-halves performing at the highest level in world rugby right now.

Although he is no longer at the peak of his powers, De Klerk remains a top-quality scrum-half with plenty left to offer. His move back to South Africa with the Cheetahs next season could give his career fresh momentum.

A starter in both the Springboks’ 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup final victories, De Klerk is known for his relentless energy, aggressive defence, and strong fundamentals.

His box kicking and passing remain among the best in the game, while his ability to disrupt opponents around the field continues to make him a constant nuisance.

Another South African on the list, Reinach continues to impress despite being 36 years old.

While De Klerk was often preferred for the biggest Test matches, Reinach made his own mark at the 2019 Rugby World Cup by scoring the fastest hat-trick in tournament history during a 66-7 win over Canada.

He is widely regarded as one of the quickest scrum-halves in world rugby. His explosive acceleration, sharp support lines, and eye for opportunities make him a constant attacking threat.

Serin has been unfortunate to play in an era packed with elite French scrum-halves, limiting his opportunities at Test level despite his outstanding ability.

Reaching 50 caps for France in such a competitive environment highlights the quality of his game intelligence and distribution.

In a country where tactical control from scrum-half is hugely important, Serin stands out for his elite playmaking and rapid service from the base.

White has shared responsibilities at Toulon with Serin, but his growing importance internationally gives him the edge in these rankings.

The Scotland international joined the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia as injury cover for Tomos Williams and made his debut in a 21-10 win over the NSW Waratahs, becoming Lion #883.

Despite being born in England, White has become a key figure in Gregor Townsend’s Scotland side thanks to his consistency and composure.

Mitchell may face increasing competition at Northampton Saints from rising talent Archie McParland, but he remains England’s first-choice scrum-half.

Playing in Saints’ high-tempo system has helped showcase his quick delivery and dangerous running game around the fringes. His ability to keep defenders uncertain is a major strength.

England often look less fluid without him, and he has firmly established himself as Steve Borthwick’s preferred starter.

Like Reinach, Williams brings electric pace to the scrum-half position. His speed and attacking instincts allow him to raise the tempo of matches instantly, while his athleticism also gives him the versatility to cover the wing.

Although he does not yet have the same Test pedigree as some of his Springbok teammates, his current level of performance arguably places him above them. At 29, he is entering the prime years of his career.

At just 25 years old, Roigard has already established himself as one of the leading scrum-halves in world rugby and a major figure for the All Blacks.

The Hurricanes star is celebrated for his athleticism, physicality, and ability to break games open. His combination of power and speed makes him one of the most dangerous number nines in the sport.

With eight tries in 13 appearances for club and country this season, his rise shows no signs of slowing down.

The top three begins with another New Zealander, although Gibson-Park has built his reputation in Ireland.

Since qualifying for Ireland, the Leinster scrum-half has developed into one of the finest players in the world in his position.

His performances earned him three British & Irish Lions Test starts against Australia last year, and he is widely considered the best scrum-half across Britain and Ireland.

Gibson-Park is known for his lightning-fast service, excellent tactical control, and remarkable work rate.

The top two are both French, and separating them is incredibly difficult. Based on overall career achievements and ability, many would still place Dupont at number one.

However, on current form, he narrowly misses out. Since returning from a long-term ACL injury in November, he has not consistently reached the extraordinary standards he previously set.

Even so, Dupont remains one of the defining players of his generation. He has collected 39 individual honours, including the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year award in 2021 and the World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year award in 2024.

Following Bordeaux-Bègles’ recent Champions Cup triumph, Lucu moves into top spot as the best scrum-half in world rugby right now.

A true leader for his club, he has developed a superb partnership with Matthieu Jalibert. Lucu combines metronomic kicking with outstanding tactical awareness and relentless defensive commitment.

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

Earlier in April, he also earned Man of the Match honours against Dupont’s Toulouse, further underlining his world-class form.