WORLD XV: Read, Parisse, Vunipola? Who is the world’s best Number 8?

Top 10s/Lists

by Rugby Rucker

Monday, 07 August 2017 at 21:42

byRugby Rucker

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Next, in our World XV poll series is the number 8 with us once again giving you a six-man shortlist.

Number 8 is one of the most important positions on the field tactically, as the players who feature there are often the link between the forwards and the backs, and are used as a team’s ball carrier when go-forward is needed.

It is arguably the strongest position in world rugby at this moment in time, so who is the best?

You can skip to the poll HERE or scroll through the contenders before making an informed decision.

Here are our nominees:

1. Sergio Parisse - Italy

Widely recognised as the finest No.8 to play the game in the two decades, you just couldn’t have a debate about a best number 8 in the world list without a nod towards the Italian talisman. Parisse turns 34 in September, but remains an irrepressible force with his one-handed off-loads a thing of beauty.

Standing 6ft 5ins and weighing 17st 5lbs, the Italian powerhouse is a majestic figure, big and strong, with the brute force to make holes in any defence.

But he also has hands to die for and outstanding footballing skills. A few years back would easily be top of the pile but now has a number of credible competitors...

2. Billy Vunipola - England

The spearhead of England’s surge to successive Six Nations titles, injury robbed Vunipola junior of a tilt at Lions glory this summer. The Saracen is a fearsome carrying force and still only 24.

An incredible ball carrier and relentlessly strong in either the maul or tackle.

3. Facundo Isa - Argentina

The decision of Isa to sign a big-money deal with French powerhouses Toulon is a massive blow to the Pumas, who have a policy of only picking home-based players for Test rugby (apart from World Cups). Crashes over the gainline and hits hard, Champions Cup opponents will be on alert.

His 66 carries throughout the November internationals last year was more than any of his rival nominees, but he is yet to properly establish himself consistently on the world stage.

However, as the youngest player on this shortlist, watch this space.

4. Kieran Read - New Zealand

When you’re captain of perhaps the most successful sports team in the world, a lot is expected of you, and Kieran Read is the epitome of what a number 8 should be.

The 2013 IRB Player of the Year, is a totem of New Zealand rugby, and led the world champions impressively during all three Tests. Defied a six-week injury absence to produce a monumental display in the opening Test against the Lions and edged his No. 8 battle with Taulupe Faletau.

5. Louis Picamoles - France

The juggernaut No. 8 appeared to be carrying France single-handedly during the 2017 Six Nations and enjoyed a colossal season with Northampton, combining power with a subtle off-loading game.

6. Taulupe Faletau - Wales

Overcame an injury-ravaged season with Bath and Wales to be one of the Lions’ most consistent performers in New Zealand. Made more tackles, metres, breaks and beat more defenders than any forward on the trip.

Regularly excels at the base of the scrum, forming part of a perfectly balanced Welsh back-row next to Sam Warburton and tackling king Justin Tipuric.