Few areas of the pitch demand as much from a player as the back row, where physicality, work rate and breakdown ability are essential.
Following Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry and the latest international window, we have ranked the five best back-rowers in world rugby right now.
These are players who combine immense carrying power with defensive dominance, relentless tackling and the ability to change games.
5. Fraser McReight
Consistency has been the defining feature of Fraser McReight’s rise to becoming Australia’s premier openside flanker.
The Queensland Reds star combines outstanding breakdown work with a huge defensive workload. He constantly disrupts opposition possession while throwing himself into tackle after tackle.
His two first-half tries against France in the Nations Championship showcased his attacking threat, but a brilliant try-saving tackle arguably summed up his value even better.
Those all-action performances explain why he remains one of the world’s leading flankers.
Did you know? McReight captained Australia Under-20s at the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship, having already helped the Junior Wallabies win the Oceania U20 title the previous year.
4. Pieter-Steph du Toit
For years, Pieter-Steph du Toit has set the benchmark for consistency at the highest level.
His physicality is matched by a remarkable engine, allowing him to make an impact in virtually every area of the game.
One of his most memorable performances came in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, when he produced an extraordinary defensive display against New Zealand.
Now 34 and a two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, Du Toit continues to demonstrate the standards required to thrive in the Springboks’ back row.
Did you know? Du Toit is only the fourth man to win World Rugby’s Men’s 15s Player of the Year award twice, joining Dan Carter, Richie McCaw and Beauden Barrett.
3. Ardie Savea
Energy, passion and an unrivalled competitive edge have become synonymous with Ardie Savea.
Few players bring the same intensity to every carry, tackle and breakdown contest.
His move to Japan may influence how some view his place among the world’s elite, but his quality remains unquestionable.
Savea continues to lead from the front for the All Blacks with his ball-carrying, breakdown ability and relentless work rate.
Unfortunately, injury kept him out for large portions of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, denying fans the chance to see him at his best.
His absence, however, only underlined just how important he remains to New Zealand.
Did you know? Ardie’s older brother, Julian Savea, is also an All Black and won 54 caps for New Zealand.
2. Jack Willis
Since making the move to Toulouse, Jack Willis has developed into one of the finest flankers in European rugby.
His importance to the French giants was underlined again this year when he scored twice in the Top 14 final.
That came after he had already been named the league’s Player of the Season the previous year.
His work over the ball remains exceptional, while his tackling, positioning and instincts make him a constant threat around the breakdown.
A return to England before the 2027 Rugby World Cup remains unlikely, despite it being an ambition for many supporters.
His ineligibility under current RFU selection rules means England cannot call upon a player who could otherwise strengthen their options in the back row.
Did you know? Jack and his younger brother Tom Willis both came through the Wasps academy before the club’s collapse sent them on different paths.
1. Jasper Wiese
Few players in world rugby embrace physical confrontation quite like Jasper Wiese.
His carries are direct, his collisions are punishing and he brings an imposing presence to the Springboks’ pack.
There is far more to his game than raw power, though.
Wiese has become increasingly well-rounded in recent seasons, improving his decision-making and discipline while maintaining the work rate required to contribute throughout a match.
His performances during Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry were a perfect example.
Wiese was a constant menace as South Africa claimed a 3-1 series victory over New Zealand, repeatedly making his presence felt in the biggest moments.
Did you know? Wiese’s younger brother, Cobus Wiese, is also a professional South African rugby player.
