The ten best props in the world (Ranked 10-1)

This ranking focuses primarily on current form, while still recognising the careers and achievements that have shaped these players, highlighting the front-rowers combining present dominance with proven excellence.

The first of two Italians on this list, Danilo Fischetti has developed into a high-quality operator since joining Northampton Saints. He brings a dynamic, all-action style, combining solid scrummaging with impressive mobility, pace, and ball-carrying ability.

A regular for Italy and former Zebre captain, he continues to grow in influence at both club and international level.

Ethan de Groot is a powerful loosehead prop and a key figure for the All Blacks and Highlanders. He is renowned for his dominant scrummaging and relentless work rate, embodying an old-school front-row presence.

His consistency at the set piece, coupled with strong defence and direct carrying, makes him one of the most reliable props in the game.

Energy and intent define Angus Bell’s game. At just 25, he already feels central to Australia’s physical identity, with explosive ball-carrying and aggressive defence making him a constant threat, particularly in broken play.

While his scrummaging is still developing, his desire to impose himself is clear as he actively seeks involvement rather than waiting for it. A former back-rower, his mobility and handling reflect that background, and as his consistency improves, so too will his overall impact.

A late bloomer, Simone Ferrari made his Test debut in 2021 against South Africa and has since established himself as a dependable presence in the Italian front row.

During the recent Six Nations, he was outstanding before injury ruled him out of the final round. His scrummaging was consistently excellent, matching and often bettering his opposite numbers, and Italy may well have seen a different result against Wales had he been available.

Gerhard Steenkamp offers a blend of raw power and surprising mobility, representing both the Bulls and the Springboks with authority. He combines traditional front-row strength with the work rate of a loose forward.

He is particularly effective around the park compared to many of his peers, while still maintaining the high scrummaging standards expected of a South African prop.

Ellis Genge’s game is now defined by controlled aggression. At 30, he has channelled his emotion into consistent, destructive performances, with ferocious carrying, confrontational defence, and a commanding presence.

What sets him apart now is maturity, choosing his moments rather than forcing them. A key leader, he often drags his side into contests through sheer will, and despite England’s mixed Six Nations, their scrum remained a major strength under his influence.

Wilco Louw is a set-piece specialist whose scrummaging can dictate matches. At 31, his low body position, core strength, and technical precision make him extremely difficult to move.

While not the flashiest player, improved conditioning has allowed him to contribute more in open play, adding another layer to his game.

Thomas du Toit’s game is built on immense strength and refined technique. Now 30, he prioritises efficiency over flair, offering uncompromising scrummaging and the durability to perform deep into matches.

His experience is evident in high-pressure situations where he rarely overplays his hand. His ability to operate on both sides of the scrum adds significant value, and with a return to South Africa looming, he remains a highly dependable tighthead.

Ox Nche earns his place through dominance in the most demanding aspect of forward play, the scrum. At 30, he has turned it into a craft, dismantling elite opposition with exceptional technique and leverage rather than sheer size.

His low centre of gravity, explosive drive, and precision make him incredibly difficult to counter. Around the field, he works tirelessly without seeking attention, and his World Player of the Year nomination reflects just how dominant he has become.

Joe Heyes takes top spot on form. Since breaking through during England’s tour to Argentina last summer, he has rapidly developed into arguably the best scrummager in the world.

His impact has been transformative, playing a major role in turning England’s scrum from a weakness into a genuine strength. Beyond the set piece, he offers plenty with ball in hand and is now firmly established as the premier tighthead in the game today.