Props are the unsung heroes of any rugby side, doing the hardest work in the most demanding areas of the game. Their impact often goes unnoticed, yet it can decide matches.
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This ranking focuses primarily on current form, while still recognising the careers and achievements that have shaped these players, highlighting the front-rowers combining present dominance with proven excellence.
10 Danilo Fischetti
The first of two Italians on this list, Danilo Fischetti has developed into a high-quality operator since joining Northampton Saints. He brings a dynamic, all-action style, combining solid scrummaging with impressive mobility, pace, and ball-carrying ability.
A regular for Italy and former Zebre captain, he continues to grow in influence at both club and international level.
9 Ethan de Groot
Ethan de Groot is a powerful loosehead prop and a key figure for the All Blacks and Highlanders. He is renowned for his dominant scrummaging and relentless work rate, embodying an old-school front-row presence.
His consistency at the set piece, coupled with strong defence and direct carrying, makes him one of the most reliable props in the game.
8 Angus Bell
Energy and intent define Angus Bell’s game. At just 25, he already feels central to Australia’s physical identity, with explosive ball-carrying and aggressive defence making him a constant threat, particularly in broken play.
While his scrummaging is still developing, his desire to impose himself is clear as he actively seeks involvement rather than waiting for it. A former back-rower, his mobility and handling reflect that background, and as his consistency improves, so too will his overall impact.
7 Simone Ferrari
A late bloomer, Simone Ferrari made his Test debut in 2021 against South Africa and has since established himself as a dependable presence in the Italian front row.
During the recent Six Nations, he was outstanding before injury ruled him out of the final round. His scrummaging was consistently excellent, matching and often bettering his opposite numbers, and Italy may well have seen a different result against Wales had he been available.
6 Gerhard Steenkamp
Gerhard Steenkamp offers a blend of raw power and surprising mobility, representing both the Bulls and the Springboks with authority. He combines traditional front-row strength with the work rate of a loose forward.
He is particularly effective around the park compared to many of his peers, while still maintaining the high scrummaging standards expected of a South African prop.
