Best scrum-halves in the world (Ranked 10-1)

The modern number nine is expected to combine speed, skill, and game intelligence. Here, we count down the ten best scrum-halves in the world right now.

Relentless in defence and fiercely competitive, few scrum-halves match the intensity he brings to the role.

Despite his size, he thrives in physical exchanges and consistently disrupts opposition attacks. His box kicking is a major strength, combining distance with precision, while his leadership helps guide his side through tight contests.

Faf de Klerk has been a central figure in South Africa’s success, playing a key role in their Rugby World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023. Trusted in high-pressure matches, he regularly delivered in knockout rugby, underlining his importance to one of the dominant international teams of the era.

Cobus Reinach’s game is built on speed, with explosive acceleration that makes him a constant attacking threat.

His ability to identify space and support breaks turns him into a prolific try-scorer, particularly in open play. Quick distribution from the base keeps attacking phases sharp and unpredictable.

On the international stage, he made headlines with a record-fast hat-trick at the 2019 Rugby World Cup. A member of South Africa’s victorious squads in both 2019 and 2023, he has proven his value in key moments, offering a dangerous option capable of changing games in an instant.

Calm, composed and tactically astute, his strengths lie in controlling the rhythm of a match. His kicking game is intelligent and measured, while clear communication ensures cohesion across the team. Under pressure, he remains composed and capable of making the right decisions.

Since his debut in 2016, Baptiste Serin has delivered consistent performances for France whenever selected. Competing with Antoine Dupont for the starting role, he has still made a strong impression.

His game management and vision continue to mark him out as a highly dependable scrum-half.

Sharp decision-making and attacking instinct define his approach, particularly around the fringes of the ruck. His sniping runs regularly challenge defensive lines, while his passing range and creativity add variety to attacking phases. He brings both energy and unpredictability to the position.

Tomos Williams has grown into a key figure for Wales, with consistent performances at international level. His progress has also been recognised with selection for the British and Irish Lions.

Increasing responsibility at club level has further highlighted his development as both a player and leader.

Ben White offers consistency and control, built on accurate passing and disciplined execution. His ability to organise defensively and maintain structure in attack makes him a reliable presence throughout a match. A solid kicking game complements his high work rate.

Having qualified for Scotland, he has established himself as an important part of the national setup. Strong performances have contributed to notable victories, including Calcutta Cup successes.

Speed of service is central to his game, allowing attacks to flow at a high tempo. His passing is sharp and accurate, while his support lines frequently put him in dangerous positions. Continued improvements in his tactical kicking have added further balance to his skillset.

Alex Mitchell took his opportunity during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, emerging as England’s first-choice scrum-half in the knockout stages, and has since toured with the British and Irish Lions.

Powerful running and athleticism give him a unique edge for a scrum-half. His ability to attack the fringes with pace and strength creates consistent pressure on defences. Roigard’s physicality allows him to compete effectively in contact situations.

Still early in his international career, Cam Roigard has already made a strong impression with New Zealand, including involvement at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Grant Williams stands out for his exceptional pace, with the ability to accelerate quickly from the base of the ruck. His sharp instincts make him particularly dangerous in transition, while his finishing ability ensures opportunities are often converted into points.

A valuable member of South Africa’s squad, he played a role in their 2023 Rugby World Cup success and has featured in subsequent Rugby Championship victories. Versatility across the backline adds further value, making him a dynamic option capable of impacting games in multiple ways.

Quick distribution and tempo control are the hallmarks of his game, enabling attacking systems to function at maximum efficiency. His understanding with whichever fly-half he plays with is a key strength, while his decision-making remains composed under pressure.

Since becoming eligible for Ireland, Jamison Gibson-Park has developed into a central figure for the national side.

His performances have earned widespread recognition, including selection in the World Rugby Dream Team.

Widely regarded as the benchmark for modern scrum-halves, his all-round ability sets him apart. He combines elite passing, kicking and running with exceptional vision and intelligence, consistently influencing every phase of play. His physicality also allows him to compete at the breakdown.

Antoine Dupont’s career is defined by both team success and individual excellence, with numerous major honours and awards for France and Toulouse.

His consistency and ability to deliver in decisive moments have cemented his status as one of the greatest players of his generation, and arguably the finest scrum-half of the modern era.