Any such list that showcases the supposed “best” of anything is going to come under some scrutiny from observers, fans and analysts, and that includes a list of the best fullbacks in the world of rugby.
6.
Telusa Veainu
He capped off an extraordinary season by being named the RPA Players’ Player of the Year at the 20th RPA Players’ Awards in association with England Rugby.
The 27-year-old, who has been capped nine times by Tonga, has been in sensational form in 2017/18, scoring seven tries for Leicester and proving an absolute handful for opposition defences across the Aviva Premiership, beating more than 85 defenders, and making over 1,500 metres.
5.
Charles Piutau
He is to become the highest paid player in world rugby this summer after Championship side Bristol smashed Premiership records by signing the former All Black on a sensational £1 million per season deal.
Piutau, the utility back who won 16 caps for the All Blacks before joining Irish province Ulster via a dazzling season at Wasps, has again been one of the best players in Europe consistently.
4.
Ben Smith
The versatile back remains one of the finest footballers on the planet. A proven try-scorer who, like many of his compatriots, is blessed with a knack of making the right decisions at the right time.
3.
Willie le Roux
Le Roux was ridiculously good for South Africa in the first two Tests with England and excellent for Wasps in the Aviva Premiership. One writer went as far as to describe him as a genius.
2.
Stuart Hogg
Hogg’s electrifying speed and insatiable attitude see him serve as a genuine threat whenever he has ball in hand while also being a fearless leader in defence, putting his body on the line time-and-time again.
1.
Israel Folau
One of the most athletically gifted players in the game, a person of Folau’s speed, size, strength and stature could apply his arsenal to nearly any sport and still exude all the qualities of a world class talent.
While perhaps still prone to the odd error and frailties in defence, there is arguably no-one more clinical under the high ball or terrifying when in all-out attack mode.
