The ten most underrated rugby players in the world right now (Ranked 10-1)

Whether due to the teams they play for, the positions they occupy or simply a lack of profile, their quality is frequently overlooked.

From established internationals to rising talents, these are the 10 most underrated players in world rugby, whose ability far exceeds the perception surrounding them.

As one of the best players in the world, it feels strange to describe Tommaso Menoncello as underrated. Even so, despite his obvious quality, he still does not always receive the recognition he deserves.

The Italian centre has formed one of the strongest midfield partnerships in world rugby alongside Juan Ignacio Brex. His game is built on exceptional athleticism, raw power and defensive reliability.

A move to Toulouse next season could bring him greater exposure as he competes for the biggest honours in club rugby.

Recognition has started to come Fabian Holland's way, but not to the extent it should. Even after winning World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year award, he remains surprisingly overlooked.

His rise from youth rugby to the highest level has been rapid, marked by consistency and clear potential. His physical presence is one of his standout qualities.

Strong in the lineout and effective around the field, Holland continues to improve. Given his ceiling, it is surprising he does not attract more attention, particularly after beating Henry Pollock to the award.

Hookers rarely dominate headlines, and Giacomo Nicotera is a perfect example of why that can create misconceptions. His recent Six Nations displays highlighted just how valuable he is to Italy.

Reliable at the set-piece and aggressive in contact, he has steadily developed since making his debut in 2022. His leadership qualities were also evident when he captained the side on tour.

Accurate at the lineout and consistently physical, Nicotera continues to deliver while others attract more of the spotlight.

Consistency is often overlooked, but Hugo Keenan has built his reputation on exactly that. Rarely the most eye-catching player on the pitch, he has become a vital figure through his reliability.

Since making his international debut in 2020, he has performed across the biggest tournaments, including starting every match of a World Cup campaign. His positional awareness and decision-making remain among his greatest strengths.

Keenan rarely seeks attention, but when discussing the world's leading full-backs, he deserves to be firmly in the conversation.

Not every prop can influence a match outside the scrum, but Angus Bell certainly can. Around the field, he carries aggressively and adds genuine dynamism to Australia's attack.

His career has not been without challenges, with injuries at times threatening to derail his progress. However, he has consistently bounced back and achieved significant milestones at a young age.

Technically strong in the set-piece and powerful in open play, Bell offers a complete package that deserves far more recognition.

Still only 20 years old, Fabien Brau-Boirie has reached several major milestones at remarkable speed, although his rise has largely gone unnoticed outside France.

After making his professional debut at 18, he quickly established himself as one of the country's most promising young talents. Strong performances at Under-20 level, including tries and impressive defensive displays, accelerated his progression to the senior stage.

A try on his full international debut further highlighted his potential. Combining physicality, composure and line-breaking ability, he looks destined for a bright future.

Paolo Garbisi is widely regarded as one of the most talented fly-halves in Europe, yet he often receives less attention than many of his contemporaries.

His tactical intelligence and game management are highly valued within the Italian set-up and in the Top 14, but he is often overshadowed by more high-profile number tens in the Six Nations.

Reports suggest Toulon could move him on, with Newcastle Red Bulls and USA Perpignan among the potential destinations. A switch to the Red Bulls could help raise his profile among English supporters.

Sam Underhill has long been one of England's most effective defensive players. A relentless tackler and breakdown specialist, he excels in areas that often attract less attention.

His impact can be easy to miss because much of his work is done away from the spotlight, but his ability to disrupt attacks and win physical battles remains invaluable.

Many within the game appreciate his quality, but the nature of his role means he is often overlooked compared to more attack-minded stars.

Sometimes recognition is shaped as much by profile as performance, and Davit Niniashvili is a prime example.

Representing a nation that receives less global attention, the La Rochelle back's influence is often underestimated despite consistently impressive displays at both club and international level.

With pace, creativity and an ability to change games, Niniashvili regularly produces standout moments. If he played in a higher-profile environment, his reputation would likely be even greater.

Watch Tomas Albornoz closely and his influence quickly becomes apparent. The Toulon fly-half directs games with intelligence, composure and attacking flair.

His emergence as the team's first-choice playmaker has coincided with significant success, and his performances in major matches have underlined his importance.

An accurate kicker and composed distributor, Albornoz plays a key role in shaping his team's attacking approach. Despite that, he remains one of the most underrated players in the game.