Picking a world XV is one of the toughest jobs in rugby. Every fan has their favourites, every nation has its stars, and there will always be fierce debate over who deserves a place.
But after weighing up current form, consistency, influence and performances on the biggest stages, RUCK Editor Steve Smith has selected his best XV in world rugby right now. Featuring World Cup winners, Six Nations stars and some of the game’s most exciting talents, this team represents the players currently setting the standard in the professional era.
From the power of South Africa’s dominant forward pack to the creativity of Antoine Dupont and Finn Russell, here’s the XV Steve Smith believes would be the strongest side in world rugby today.
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Best XV in World:
1. Ox Nché (South Africa)
The cornerstone of South Africa’s dominant scrum. Nché has become the benchmark loosehead in world rugby, combining devastating scrummaging power with an ever-improving work rate around the field. When the Springboks need a scrum penalty, he’s usually the man delivering it.
2. Malcolm Marx (South Africa)
A turnover machine, destructive carrier and elite set-piece operator. Marx remains the complete modern hooker and continues to produce match-winning moments at the highest level.
3. Thomas du Toit (South Africa)
After several outstanding seasons in both club and international rugby, Du Toit has cemented himself as one of the most dominant tightheads in the game. Powerful in the scrum and surprisingly mobile in open play.
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4. Maro Itoje (England)
Back to his very best. Itoje remains rugby’s premier lineout disruptor and one of the sport’s most influential forwards. His leadership, athleticism and ability to produce huge moments separate him from the pack.
5. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
The ultimate hybrid lock. Beirne’s breakdown work, handling ability and relentless engine make him invaluable. Few forwards have a bigger all-round impact on a game.
6. Charles Ollivon (France)
France’s captaincy options may change, but Ollivon’s quality never does. An exceptional lineout operator with genuine pace and finishing ability, he remains one of the world’s elite blindside flankers.
7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa)
The reigning standard for defensive excellence. Du Toit’s work rate borders on absurd, while his physicality and ability to dominate collisions make him arguably the world’s most complete flanker.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland)
The heartbeat of Ireland’s pack. Doris combines power, skill and leadership with remarkable consistency. At his best, there isn’t a No. 8 in world rugby who influences every aspect of the game more effectively.
