Most Underrated Players in World Rugby Today

Monday, 01 September 2025 at 18:32

byRugby Rucker

Rugby is a sport full of stars who dominate headlines, but some of the game’s most influential players quietly fly under the radar.

These athletes may not always get the recognition they deserve from the media or casual fans, yet their consistency, leadership, and skill make them indispensable to their teams.

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From relentless defenders to tactical masterminds, the following five players have proven time and again that impact doesn’t always equal fame.

Here’s our ranking of the most underrated players in world rugby today, from five to one.

5. Hugo Keenan (Ireland)

⭐ Consistent High-Level Performance

From 'C' team to Lions: Once unable to make his school's under-14 C team at Blackrock College, Keenan has now achieved iconic status as a British & Irish Lions player, scoring a vital try in a test against Australia in Melbourne. His rise underscores the value of hard work, dedication, and late blooming, offering hope to many aspiring athletes.

Fitness prowess: Keenan holds the record for the Bronco test, a demanding rugby fitness drill, with a time of 4:11, surpassing former All Blacks star Beauden Barrett.

? Underrated Despite Impact

Integral to Ireland's success: Known for his exceptional fitness, Keenan's consistent performances for Leinster and Ireland highlight his importance to both teams.

Team acknowledgment: Hugo Keenan has long had the 'underrated' tag on his Test career but is now widely acknowledged as one of the best fullbacks in world rugby.

4. François Cros (France)

⭐ Consistent High-Level Performance

Toulouse stalwart: Having played well over 150 matches for Toulouse and more than 30 times for France, Cros has encountered some of the best talents that have graced the rugby pitch and that is reflected in his selections.

Physical presence: Standing at 6ft 3in and weighing 107kg, Cros brings a formidable presence to the back row.

? Underrated Despite Impact

Steady performer: François Cros isn't the flashiest name in French rugby, but he might just be the most important. While superstars often grab the headlines, Cros's consistent and impactful performances are crucial to France's success.

Fan recognition: Cros is widely appreciated by fans for his hardworking, reliable, and underappreciated contributions on the field.

3. Gaël Fickou (France)

⭐ Consistent High-Level Performance

Versatile back: Gaël Fickou is among France's most experienced players. The centre, who can also be deployed on the wing, has an accomplished all-round game defined by tough tackling and powerful running.

Key contributor: Considering his importance to the French renaissance in recent years, Fickou has quietly developed his game to become arguably the best all-around centre while flashier teammates take the plaudits.

? Underrated Despite Impact

Defensive rock: Fickou is the unsung hero of France’s backline. A defensive rock and an astute playmaker, he's often overshadowed by flashier teammates. Yet his leadership, consistency, and rugby IQ make him indispensable for France.

Documentary presence: He is also one of the main stars in Netflix’s Six Nations documentary, highlighting his influence on and off the field.

2. George Ford (England)

⭐ Consistent High-Level Performance

Strategic playmaker: George Ford is one of the most intelligent fly-halves in the game, capable of controlling matches with precise tactical decisions.

Match-winning performances: Ford has delivered masterful performances, steering England and Sale Sharks with flawless game management and accurate kicking.

? Underrated Despite Impact

Overlooked by selectors: Despite being a key player for England, Ford faces uncertainty in the national team as younger players are given more opportunities.

Lions omission: Many experts consider Ford the best fly-half in the world, yet he has often been overlooked for the British & Irish Lions tours.

1. Pablo Matera (Argentina)

⭐ Consistent High-Level Performance

Veteran and dependable: With over 109 caps for Argentina and still going strong, Matera brings experience, skill, and leadership to the pitch.

Global club journey: He's navigated rugby environments from Leicester Tigers to Jaguares, Stade Français, Crusaders, and now Mie Honda Heat in Japan, boosting his reputation across continents.

Captain but humble: Matera led Argentina in major fixtures, including their 2024 opener of the Rugby Championship versus New Zealand.

Resilience seen: After serving a suspension from a red card, he returned to the national side for key tests like the one against Ireland in Dublin.

? Underrated Despite Impact

Underrated despite impact: Though well-known within rugby circles, Matera often flies under the mainstream radar compared to other global stars, making his influence even more deserving of recognition.

Comeback and canonical strength: In 2020, he faced a major setback, being stripped of his captaincy and suspended over resurfaced xenophobic and racist social media posts from 2011–2013. However, his prompt apology, completion of educational training, and swift reinstatement demonstrated accountability and growth, allowing him to reclaim his place as a pillar of the squad.