10. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)
Having been recently awarded the title of South African Rugby Player of the Year 2022, Eben Etzebeth is going from strength to strength. As a veteran lock, he is an incredibly influential member of the Springbok team, often one of the most physical and actively involved players on the pitch.
Standing tall at an impressive 6 foot 8, Etzebeth’s imposing stature gives the Springboks a dominating edge at lineouts. His colossal physicality is also a force to be reckoned with as he frequently bulldozes through the opposition’s defensive line, leaving several players in his wake.
9. Gregory Alldritt (France)
With his exceptional skill in the breakdown, constantly winning turnovers for his team, combined with his strong carrying, offloading, and game-reading abilities, Alldritt undoubtedly ranks among the top number eights in the world.
In addition, his well-rounded game, leadership, and world-class credentials played a crucial role in securing Top 14 side La Rochelle’s European Rugby Challenge Cup victory.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland)
7. Emiliano Boffelli (Argentina)
The playmaker left an indelible mark in the Summer Rugby Championship, showcasing his exceptional kicking accuracy to lead Argentina to a historic 48-17 victory over Australia. His record-breaking performance continued as he contributed 20 points in Argentina’s first-ever win on New Zealand soil, with a score of 25-17.
Boffelli capped off an impressive season as the top points-scorer in international rugby, including a remarkable 25 of Argentina’s 30 points in their punishing victory over England at Twickenham. It’s no surprise that Edinburgh extended the contract of one of world rugby’s most accurate goalkickers for an additional two years!
6. Siya Kolisi (South Africa)
The Springboks’ World Cup-winning captain is an ever-inspirational figure and a hero to many. In 2018, he made history by becoming the first Black captain in the side’s 126-year history, and his influential presence has cemented him as one of his country’s most important players.
A natural leader on and off the pitch, the dynamic flanker led his team to victory against England in the iconic final of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. He has since captained the side in their triumph against the British and Irish Lions in 2021. Beyond rugby, he is a Global Advocate for the United Nations and a co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, demonstrating his dedication to making a positive impact both within and outside of the sport.