Ranked! The seven best full-backs in the world - Ruck

Ranked! The seven best full-backs in the world

It’s a golden age for No.15’s right now, but these seven have proved themselves the best full-backs in the world … in our opinion, at least.

Best Full-backs in the World

7. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)

The Scarlets ace is among the best goal kickers in World rugby and produces the goods or Wales on a consistent basis. His ability in the air rivals the best in the business and, his speed makes him an invaluable asset to Warren Gatland’s side both offensively and defensively.


6. Wille le Roux (South Africa)

His running with ball in hand, and ability to do the unexpected make him a massive influence on how the Springboks attack, and are also reasons why the 29-year-old has become one of the most feared attackers in world rugby.


5. Ben Smith (New Zealand)

For many, he’s the top full-back on the planet. “Ben’s the best on both sides of the ball,” says Jeff Wilson. He calculates risk like some sort of super-computer and invariably takes the perfect option – you can wait a long time for a Smith mistake! Despite taking a sabbatical, the quiet leader finds himself on this list for those peerless moments of rugby clarity.

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