The 10 Greatest Rugby Brothers Ever – Ranked From 10 To 1

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 at 19:34

byRugby Rucker

There’s something special about brothers on a rugby field — an unspoken understanding, a shared drive, and a bond forged long before kick-off.

From the beaches of Samoa to the heart of Twickenham, sibling duos, trios and even quartets have helped shape the sport.

Here are the 15 greatest rugby brothers of all time, ranked from 10 to 1.

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10 The Bests (Rory & Simon)

Simon and Rory Best both captained Ulster and Ireland, a rare distinction for siblings. Simon’s career as a prop was cut short by health issues, but he led Ulster to a Celtic League title in 2006.

Rory became one of Ireland’s longest-serving captains, earning 124 caps and touring twice with the Lions. Both built reputations on discipline, reliability, and leadership.

9 The Youngs (Tom & Ben)

The Youngs brothers defined Leicester Tigers’ modern era. Tom, originally a centre, converted successfully to hooker, captaining Leicester to the 2013 Premiership title and earning a Lions tour that same year.

Ben, a sharp and experienced scrum-half, became England’s most capped men’s player with 127 appearances. Together, they brought stability and competitiveness to both club and country.

8 The Brookes (Zinzan & Robin)

Zinzan and Robin Brooke were central to New Zealand’s success in the 1990s. Zinzan, an athletic No. 8, expanded the role with his handling and tactical kicking, scoring 17 test tries.

Robin, a reliable lock, was a key leader in the All Blacks and Auckland Blues. Their combined physicality and skill made them core figures in New Zealand’s golden era of dominance.

7 The Hastings (Gavin & Scott)

Gavin and Scott Hastings are among Scotland’s greatest rugby figures. Gavin, a fullback, captained his country with distinction and scored 667 international points, a national record at the time.

Scott, a centre, earned over 60 caps and toured twice with the British & Irish Lions. Together, they helped Scotland reach the 1991 World Cup semi-final and remain respected ambassadors for the sport.

6 The Ntamacks (Émile & Francis)

Émile and Francis Ntamack became symbols of Toulouse and French rugby’s rise in the 1990s. Émile, a versatile back, captained Toulouse to the first Heineken Cup victory in 1996 and starred for France at international level.

Francis, a back-row forward, was a steady performer for Toulouse. The legacy continues through Émile’s son Romain, France’s current fly-half, keeping the family name at the sport’s forefront.

5 The Vunipolas (Mako & Billy)

The Vunipola family bridges two rugby generations and two nations. Fe’ao, Elisi, and Manu represented Tonga at Rugby World Cups in the 1990s. Fe’ao later moved to Wales, where his sons Mako and Billy were raised.

Mako, a loosehead prop, has earned over 70 caps for England and toured twice with the Lions. Billy, a powerful No. 8, became one of the game’s most effective ball carriers. Both were central to Saracens’ sustained success in recent years and both now play in France, Mako for Vannes and Billy for Montpellier.

4 The Whitelocks (Sam, George, Luke & Adam)

The Whitelock brothers are a cornerstone of New Zealand rugby. Sam, with over 130 All Blacks caps and multiple World Cups, is one of the most decorated players in history.

Eldest brother George captained Canterbury to several titles, while Luke played for both the Crusaders and Highlanders. Adam, the only back, represented New Zealand in sevens. Their shared professionalism and work ethic define the modern All Black culture.

3 The Currys (Tom & Ben)

Twins Tom and Ben Curry have been central to Sale Sharks’ and England’s back-row strength. Both are known for defensive work and breakdown precision.

Tom debuted for England at 18 and became one of the youngest forwards to play at a World Cup, also playing for the Lions later on in his career. Ben followed soon after, earning caps for England. Their teamwork and near-identical playing styles make them one of the sport’s most unique partnerships.

2 The Barretts (Beauden, Scott & Jordie)

Beauden, Scott, and Jordie Barrett have redefined family success in rugby. Beauden, a two-time World Player of the Year, has been a key playmaker for the All Blacks.

Scott, a lock, combines power with skill, while Jordie offers versatility across the backline and a reliable long-range boot. Their father, Kevin, played for Taranaki, continuing a family rugby tradition. The Barretts’ combined impact has been unmatched in recent All Black history.

1 The Tuilagis (Manu, Alesana, Anitelea, Freddie, Henry & Vavae)

The Tuilagi brothers’ story is one of global influence and family pride. Alesana, Anitelea, Freddie, Henry, and Vavae all represented Samoa, with several playing together at Leicester Tigers, where their strength and direct style became renowned.

Manu, the youngest, took the legacy further with England and the British & Irish Lions, earning a reputation as one of the game’s most powerful centres. Together, the Tuilagis stand as rugby’s most prolific family, combining Pacific Island heritage with professional excellence.

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