RUCK's Team of 2025: Part 1 - Backs

Here’s who rose above the rest to dominate world rugby’s backline during an unforgettable and fiercely competitive season for rugby fans.

Had to be in here. The All Blacks look a completely different prospect whenever Roigard is on the pitch, and he has elevated his game to another level in 2025. He has all the attributes to be a top scrum-half and does all of the basics to an extremely high level. Still 25, there is plenty more left in the tank and he could be approaching his prime.

A nailed-on starter for the British & Irish Lions, Gibson-Park may be a level below Roigard now, but he is still the same player that has been at the top of the rugby world for a number of years now. Now with a bit more experience, JGP has been leading Ireland in recent times.

Yes, he has been injured for most of the year, and some may disagree with this inclusion. But, Dupont is simply that good that he has still been one of the top performers across the whole year, despite missing the majority of it. Before his injury, he was the best in the world, and he looks to be replicating that form now he is back.

Arguably the most exciting talent in the world right now, and someone who has such a bright future ahead of them. This year has been the making of Feinberg-Mngomezulu, as he has firmly established himself as the Springboks fly-half. He has already managed to top the list of the highest try-scoring Bok fly-halves of all-time, surpassing Morne Steyn's tally in 49 fewer Tests. Aside from that, he is super creative and has the X-factor needed to succeed at the top.

While it hasn't been his absolute best year, Russell has still managed to win a treble with Bath and stay as Scotland's talisman. Another who is super creative, this year has shown a bit of a different dynamic to his game, as Russell has shown that he can keep a cool head and not be as erratic as he can sometimes be.

Class oozes whenever Ford touches the ball. After a tough autumn last year for England, his redemption has been stunning to watch, coming back from setback after setback to just let his rugby do the talking. Possibly the coolest head in rugby and most intelligent player, Ford is outstanding to watch.

Straightforward No.1 pick for this position. Bielle-Biarrey is a cut above the rest, and is still only 22. Scored a record number of tries in the Six Nations, and led Bordeaux to a Champions Cup. He is also Bordeaux's top try-scorer of all-time, despite his age. What a player and a joy to watch.

Despite not stealing too many headlines, Arendse has been quietly going about his business for the best international team in the world, bringing a cutting edge whenever they need it. Now in Japan, his year might have gone under the radar a bit, but he has showed some serious quality across 2025.

Van der Merwe has had to battle a few injuries that have slightly hampered his year, however the Scot finished off his international campaign by becoming Scotland's all-time record try-scorer, an impressive achievement for a legend of Scottish rugby.

Recent Exeter Chiefs signing Ikitau was selected in the World Rugby Dream Team thanks to some strong performances for a Wallabies side that exceeded expectations massively this year. A player who knows how to create space for others, sometimes his work may go under the radar, but he deserves a bit of appreciation.

Another Springbok who has possibly been underrated, Willemse is now entering his prime. An extremely versatile player, we had to have in in somewhere, and it just so happens that inside centre is his home for this team.

A key part of Argentina's positive year, Chocobares brings size, power, speed, and skill to both club and international matches. Super reliable, he has star quality to shift a game on its head, and is exactly the kind of player you'd want to play with, not against.

Another versatile option that could have been anywhere, Kriel is a player that brings strong defensive skills and a high work rate to any team that he is apart of. Now in Japan, he seems to have a new lease of life internationally, and has been very good for the Boks.

Was the selection for the World Rugby Dream Team, but is slightly demoted here. Played very well in his first Lions tour, where he was selected to start the first Test, during which he had a try disallowed. He was then selected for the second Test, in which he scored a try as the Lions secured a series victory.

While he may be more of a winger, Moodie has played enough at outside centre to justify being picked. Moodie is an explosive player who shows remarkable maturity despite being 23 years old.

Scored two tries in the Champions Cup final and has been a perfect partner to Louis Bielle-Biarrey for both club and country. Knows exactly where the try line is and how to find it.

A powerful winger with plenty of size, Freeman has been trialled at outside centre for England, but wing still looks to be his best position for now. Helped Northampton Saints to the Champions Cup final and has been in very strong form for England. Is only getting better.

Maybe not in his absolute prime anymore, Kolbe is still a top player who is dangerous every time he touches the ball. Hasn't quite cracked it at club level as of recently but his Springboks form is still very impressive.

An absolute try-scoring machine, Jordan brings strong game intelligence, making him a prolific attacking player. He is known for his ability to spot and exploit gaps and his skill in finishing. While the All Blacks haven't been amazing this year, he has stood up to the challenge well.

Toulouse and Scotland fullback was a key part of the Lions series victory in the summer, bringing exceptional speed, a large physical frame, and versatility to whichever side he is part of.

McKenzie has found himself a new role of being a brilliant super sub for the All Blacks, and is one of the most dangerous weapons that they have at their disposal.