Rugby Ranking: The World’s Best No. 8s Right Now (Ranked 10–1)
Rugby NewsFriday, 01 May 2026 at 08:03
The No. 8 role is the engine room of any pack — equal parts power, control, and decision-making. From destructive carriers to link-play specialists, these are the best in the business right now.
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10. Henry Pollock (England)
Still early in his career, Pollock is a powerful and fearless ball-carrier who looks tailor-made for the modern No. 8 role. Raw, but with enormous upside.
9. Wallace Sititi (New Zealand)
An explosive presence at the base of the scrum, Sititi combines athleticism with physical edge. A rising All Blacks option with serious potential.
8. Ben Earl (England)
Naturally a flanker, but increasingly effective at No. 8, Earl’s pace and breakdown threat give England a different dimension from the base.
7. Charles Ollivon (France)
More commonly deployed on the flank, Ollivon’s skillset translates well to No. 8 — especially his lineout ability and link play in wider channels.
6. Jasper Wiese (South Africa)
A specialist No. 8, Wiese brings brutal carrying and defensive dominance. He thrives in tight contests and gives the Springboks consistent go-forward.
5. Jack Dempsey (Scotland)
A natural No. 8, Dempsey offers balance — strong in contact, mobile in open play, and reliable defensively across the park.
4. Anthony Jelonch (France)
Typically a blindside flanker, Jelonch’s work rate and physicality allow him to slot into No. 8 when needed, bringing defensive intensity and leadership.
3. Harry Wilson (Australia)
Australia’s first-choice No. 8, Wilson blends smart decision-making with strong handling and consistent ball-carrying output.
2. Caelan Doris (Ireland)
The benchmark for consistency. Doris controls games from the base with elite carrying, composure, and leadership.
1. Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
A game-breaker at No. 8. Savea’s acceleration, footwork, and breakdown brilliance make him the most dangerous player in the position.
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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