Finn Russell named in the best XV in world rugby right now

While one weekend is far from enough to settle the debate, standout individual performances have already strengthened several players' claims as the best in their positions. Here is our updated World XV after the tournament's opening round.

Willemse underlined his importance against England with an outstanding display under the high ball, proving virtually impossible to dislodge in aerial contests.

He also produced a crucial tackle on Cadan Murley to prevent a late first-half try and later set up Jesse Kriel with a superb assist for his second score of the match.

His exceptional versatility across the backline allows him to excel at fly-half, inside centre, outside centre, full-back, and wing. Combined with his elusive footwork and accurate kicking off both feet, he remains one of the most complete backs in the game.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner, Kolbe has repeatedly delivered on rugby’s biggest stages. From starring in World Cup finals to tormenting the British and Irish Lions, he has built a reputation for producing match-defining moments when it matters most.

Whether attacking in open space or defending under pressure, Kolbe consistently rises to the challenge. His upcoming move to the Stormers should provide further opportunities to showcase his world-class ability.

Although Italy have made a difficult start to the Nations Championship against Japan, their progress in recent years has been impossible to ignore, with Menoncello playing a central role in that rise.

His powerful carrying and physical presence have established him among the world's leading midfielders. He ranked in the top five across several carrying metrics and finished fourth for total jackals, highlighting both his attacking influence and defensive effectiveness.

Tuipulotu is the prototype of the modern inside centre. As Scotland captain, he leads from the front, combining intelligence, physicality, and defensive authority into a complete package.

His influence is evident throughout every phase of play. He organises the midfield, carries with purpose, and consistently makes smart decisions under pressure.

Against Argentina, Tuipulotu brought real power and aggression to Scotland’s attack, repeatedly winning collisions and finishing the match with seven defenders beaten.

What more can be said about Louis Bielle-Biarrey? Right now, he looks like the brightest young talent in world rugby.

He scored 34 tries this season, including two in the Champions Cup final and four in the Six Nations finale, making him one of the most dangerous attacking players in the sport.

Still only 23 years old and already a back-to-back Six Nations Player of the Championship winner, his place in this team is unquestionable. He possesses all the attributes required to become one of rugby’s all-time greats.

Few fly-halves blend creativity and control as effectively as Finn Russell. Once regarded purely as an unpredictable maverick, he has evolved into a composed and influential playmaker who balances flair with authority.

During the summer, he became the Lions’ chief creative force, orchestrating their most threatening attacks with confidence and precision.

Whether directing Bath or leading Scotland in high-pressure Test matches, Russell has the ability to change a game with a single decision, although injury ruled him out of the recent fixture against Argentina.

Following Bordeaux-Bègles’ Champions Cup triumph, Maxime Lucu has cemented his status as the premier scrum-half in world rugby.

A natural leader, he has developed an outstanding partnership with Matthieu Jalibert. His game combines pinpoint kicking, excellent tactical awareness, and a relentless defensive work rate.

Lucu was named Player of the Match in the Champions Cup final against Leinster, playing a decisive role in Bordeaux-Bègles securing consecutive European titles.

Springbok prop Ox Nche has earned his reputation through immense strength and elite scrummaging technique.

Compact and explosive, his low centre of gravity gives him a significant advantage against taller opponents. Away from the scrum, he contributes through tireless defence and impressive mobility around the field.

He also made history by becoming the first prop nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year in 2025.

Malcolm Marx has become the gold standard for modern hookers.

Dominant in contact, relentless in his work rate, and devastating at the breakdown, he has redefined what is expected from the position.

After being crowned World Rugby Player of the Year, he became only the second hooker, after Keith Wood, to win the men's 15s award and the first to do so since 2001.

The standout prop in the Prem last season, Du Toit offers the rare ability to perform at an elite level on both sides of the scrum.

Combined with his physicality, leadership, and remarkable try-scoring record for a front-row forward, he is currently the leading tighthead prop in world rugby.

One of rugby’s most imposing figures, Eben Etzebeth has been the cornerstone of the Springbok pack for more than a decade.

With over 130 international caps, the towering lock has built his reputation on physical dominance and relentless competitiveness.

A Rugby World Cup winner and South Africa’s most-capped player, his presence consistently elevates the performance of those around him.

There is seemingly little that Tadhg Beirne cannot do.

Whether playing in the second row or at blindside flanker, he remains a vital figure in Andy Farrell’s Ireland side.

He led the Six Nations for lineout steals, topped the competition for both jackals and turnovers won, and ranked among the tournament’s leading tacklers.

His relentless work rate provided the foundation for many of Ireland’s best performances.

Recognition naturally follows effort, and few players embody that principle more than Pieter-Steph du Toit.

His 28-tackle display in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final remains one of the greatest individual performances in the sport’s history.

Now a two-time World Rugby Player of the Year at 33, he continues to represent consistency, resilience, and tactical intelligence in defence.

Relentless in contact and exceptional in his reading of the game, he perfectly embodies South Africa’s competitive identity. Despite limited recent club appearances, his standing among the world’s elite remains beyond doubt.

Few leaders in world sport command the respect and influence of Siya Kolisi.

From humble beginnings, he became South Africa’s first black captain and led the Springboks to Rugby World Cup triumphs in both 2019 and 2023.

His impact extends far beyond the field, symbolising hope, unity, and progress for millions.

As a player, Kolisi combines tireless work rate with calm authority, while his story and character continue to shape a legacy that transcends rugby itself, even if he didn't play this weekend against England.

Ardie Savea’s move to Moana Pasifika carried enormous significance, and his performances more than justified the attention.

His influence elevated standards within the squad, inspired historic victories, and earned him the Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year award.

Explosive, tireless, and inspirational, he remains a defining figure for the All Blacks.

Although his move to Japan may count slightly against him in some discussions, his quality and influence are beyond question, particularly after being appointed All Blacks captain for the Nations Championship.