The 10 best rugby players in the world right now have been ranked, with several surprise names making the cut ahead of the Autumn Internationals.
With the Nations Championship returning this month, performance analysts Oval Insights have assessed the game's most in-form stars.
Their latest analysis examined performances over the past 60 days, producing two Form XVs featuring players from both hemispheres.
To qualify, players needed at least four appearances during that period and a place in their national squad.
RUCK has taken those selections and picked our top 10 based on recent performances, statistical ratings and overall influence.
There are some big names missing, while a surprise Argentine star takes top spot.
10. Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)
Few players in world rugby are more dangerous with ball in hand.
The Bordeaux winger has become one of the game's most feared finishers, combining blistering pace with an incredible ability to find space.
His inclusion in the northern hemisphere Form XV is another reminder of his quality.
9. Fraser McReight (Australia)
The Wallabies flanker continues to establish himself among the world's leading back-row forwards.
His work at the breakdown, defensive effort and ability to influence matches have made him a vital player for Australia.
McReight's recent form earned him selection in the southern hemisphere XV.
8. Wallace Sititi (New Zealand)
The All Blacks powerhouse has quickly become one of the most exciting forwards in international rugby.
His explosive carrying, athleticism and defensive work make him a threat across the pitch.
Sititi's performances have earned him recognition alongside some of the game's biggest names.
7. Malcolm Marx (South Africa)
The Springboks hooker remains one of the most influential forwards in world rugby.
Few players can match his ability to win turnovers, dominate contact and make an impact at the breakdown.
Former South Africa captains John Smit and Victor Matfield recently backed Marx as one of the world's best.
The 2025 World Rugby Player of the Year continues to set the standard at hooker.
6. Cam Roigard (New Zealand)
The All Blacks scrum-half has developed into one of the most dangerous attacking players in the game.
Roigard's pace, support running and ability to exploit gaps make him a constant threat.
An average performance rating of 8.1 places him among the standout backs in the southern hemisphere.
He was also one of New Zealand's brightest performers during their recent series against South Africa.
5. Jac Morgan (Wales)
Wales may have endured a difficult period, but Morgan continues to stand out.
The flanker recorded an average performance rating of 8.1, underlining his consistency.
His relentless defensive work and leadership make him one of the most important players in the Wales squad.
Jac Morgan, Captain of Wales celebrates winning the match during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
4. Maro Itoje (England)
England captain Itoje continues to set the standard among the world's leading second rows.
The Saracens forward averaged 8.2 across his last five appearances in the analysis.
His defensive work, leadership and influence at the breakdown have made him one of Steve Borthwick's most important players.
Itoje will be central to England's hopes when they face Australia at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on 8 November.
3. Ntuthuko Mchunu (South Africa)
One of the biggest surprises in the entire ranking.
The powerful South African prop recorded an average performance rating of 8.3, making him the highest-rated forward across both Form XVs.
His performances have earned him recognition ahead of several established international stars.
Mchunu's inclusion shows just how impressive his recent form has been.
2. Maxime Lucu (France)
The French scrum-half has been in outstanding form for Bordeaux.
Lucu recorded an average performance rating of 8.3, making him the highest-rated back in the northern hemisphere selection.
His control, kicking game and decision-making have been central to his impressive performances.
The 33-year-old earns second place in our rankings.
1. Justo Piccardo (Argentina)
Taking top spot is Argentina centre Justo Piccardo.
The Montpellier centre recorded an average performance rating of 8.4, making him the highest-rated back across the two Form XVs.
His performances have earned him recognition ahead of some of rugby's biggest names.
Few supporters would have expected Piccardo to lead a world rugby ranking ahead of November's internationals.
However, the 24-year-old's recent displays have certainly caught the attention of the analysts.
How the ranking was decided
The Nations Championship's two Form XVs were selected using Oval Insights performance data from the previous 60 days.
Players were assessed using their recent match ratings, with a minimum of four appearances required.
RUCK then selected and ranked 10 players from those two teams, taking into account their ratings, recent performances and overall influence.
This is an independent editorial ranking, not an official top 10 issued by the Nations Championship.
