Henry Pollock has exploded onto the rugby scene this year — starring for Northampton Saints, earning his England debut in the Six Nations, and now getting the call-up for the British and Irish Lions. The back-rower is fast becoming one of the sport's most talked-about talents.
His fearless play, confidence on and off the pitch, and sheer class with ball in hand have made him a standout name in world rugby — with many touting him as the best young player in the game today.
That said, there are plenty of rising stars making their mark globally. Here's a look at 10 of the best young players in world rugby right now (in no particular order)...
1. Henry Pollock (England)
Pollock’s rise has been meteoric. From Premiership action with Saints to England’s Six Nations squad and now the Lions, he’s making waves.
His personality has split opinion — especially his wild celebrations — but his rugby speaks for itself.
Standout moment? A talismanic display in the Champions Cup semi-final vs Leinster in Dublin.
Standout moment? A talismanic display in the Champions Cup semi-final vs Leinster in Dublin.
2. Canan Moodie (South Africa)
Moodie burst onto the international scene at 19, becoming the second-youngest Springbok debutant — and scoring against Australia to boot.
He’s electric for the Bulls and the Boks, drawing comparisons to Bryan Habana with his speed, agility and try-scoring instincts.
3. Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)
Arguably the top player on this list, Bielle-Biarrey is already among the world’s elite wingers at just 22.
Fresh off a 33-try season and a record-breaking Six Nations campaign, his partnership with Damian Penaud helped Bordeaux-Bègles claim the Champions Cup.
4. Chandler Cunningham-South (England)
A breakout year for the England loose forward despite injuries slowing his momentum.
Powerful in the carry and relentless in defence, he impressed during the 2024 Autumn Nations Series and is tipped to fill Courtney Lawes’ shoes long-term.
5. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England)
Feyi-Waboso has been sensational when fit. He lit up the Champions Cup with 13 defenders beaten in one match — a record — and looked set for Lions contention before injury struck.
The Exeter speedster will only feature against the USA on England’s Americas tour due to suspension.
6. Joseph Sua'ali'i (Australia)
Rugby league convert Sua'ali’i turned heads with a dominant debut for the Wallabies against England.
At 6'5", quick, and powerful, he’s a matchup nightmare. Still only 21, he’s already played fullback, wing and centre — with a huge ceiling ahead of him.
7. Wallace Sititi (New Zealand)
The 2024 World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year, Sititi looks like a seasoned pro despite being just 22.
A relentless workhorse for the Chiefs and the All Blacks, he’s sadly sidelined for the France series but remains one of the most exciting loose forwards on the planet.
8. Peter Lakai (New Zealand)
A physical, dynamic No.8 who’s already filled in for Ardie Savea at the Hurricanes with authority.
Made his All Blacks debut against Japan in 2024, and with 13 Super Rugby starts last season, he’s learning fast and growing into a future regular.
9. Davit Niniashvili (Georgia)
One of the most underrated players in world rugby. Niniashvili dazzles at fullback with Lyon and Georgia, known for slicing through defences from deep.
His highlights are jaw-dropping, and with a Challenge Cup final under his belt, he’s already proven himself at elite level — and he's still just 22.
10. Tommaso Menoncello (Italy)
Menoncello made history in 2024 as the youngest-ever Six Nations Player of the Tournament at just 21.
A powerful, intelligent centre with attacking flair and defensive grit, he’s already Italy’s talisman and attracting Top 14 interest after standout performances for Benetton.
