Top 10 rugby players in the world, three Springboks included (Ranked 10-1)

Monday, 03 November 2025 at 09:44

byRugby Rucker

The opening weekend of the 2025 Autumn Internationals delivered statement wins, breakout stars, and brutal battles across the globe.

From Scotland’s ruthless demolition job to South Africa’s clinical display and England’s defensive steel, Week 1 had it all.

This is based

solely on performances from this weekend’s matches — not reputation, not past form, just pure impact on the pitch.

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? Results – Week 1

England 25–7 Australia
South Africa 61–7 Japan
Scotland 85–0 United States
Ireland 13–26 New Zealand

10. Henry Pollock (England)

The young No.8 continues to impress. Scored England’s second try and carried with real intent throughout. His turnover inside Australia’s 22 summed up a performance full of energy and promise. A future Test regular in the making.

9. Jamie Dobie (Scotland)

Dobie was electric. His creativity and pace tore the USA apart — a clever chip-and-chase, slick support play, and a hat-trick while switching to the wing. Scotland’s depth at scrum-half just got seriously exciting.

8. Darcy Graham (Scotland)

A hat-trick and an assist in a game where he seemed untouchable. His direct running and sharp footwork made him the standout back of the weekend. Scotland’s finisher supreme.

7. Maro Itoje (England)

Everywhere. Itoje’s breakdown pressure and line speed constantly disrupted Australia. He conceded one costly penalty, but his physical edge and relentless work rate defined England’s forward effort.

6. Kurt-Lee Arendse (South Africa)

Quiet first half, then exploded into life. Two beautifully taken tries, including one from Kolbe’s grubber, and rock-solid under the high ball. A clinical display from one of the game’s sharpest finishers.

5. Fabian Holland (New Zealand)

A towering presence in the lineout and relentless at the breakdown. While he had a few defensive slips early, he made amends with key interventions and bruising carries. A future All Blacks mainstay.

4. Ardie Savea (New Zealand)

All-action and all-class. Savea’s trademark steals, huge defensive shifts and leadership under pressure proved vital. When New Zealand needed control, he delivered it.

3. Siya Kolisi (South Africa)

The Springbok captain led from the front. Opened the scoring, carried with intent, and looked back to his most dynamic form. Constantly dented the line and inspired those around him — vintage Kolisi.

2. Ben Earl (England)

Explosive from start to finish. England’s best carrier, tireless defender, and turnover threat. His substitution was surprising, given how dominant he was in contact. A true powerhouse at No.8.

1. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (South Africa)

A masterclass from the 23-year-old. Controlled the tempo, nailed every kick, and grabbed opportunistic tries with confidence. His poise and precision cemented his status as South Africa’s next generational fly-half.