4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)
Bio: Eben Etzebeth is a dominant lock for South Africa, renowned for his physical presence and lineout skills. He is on his way to becoming one of the most capped Springboks of all time, consistently performing at a high level throughout his career. Quote from Wales Online: “Well on his way to becoming the greatest Springbok of all time. The second-row is bound to become their most-capped player of all time and his levels have scarcely dropped across his 124 caps.”
5. Maro Itoje (England)
Bio: Maro Itoje is a versatile lock and flanker for England, known for his athleticism, intelligence, and leadership. Since his debut in 2016, Itoje has been a key figure in England’s forward pack, excelling in lineouts, breakdowns, and defense. His ability to disrupt the opposition with turnovers and strong tackles has made him one of the top forwards in rugby.
6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
Bio: Tadhg Beirne is a versatile lock and flanker for Ireland, known for his work rate, intelligence, and physicality. His ability to read the game and his skill in both the lineout and breakdown make him a key player for his team. Quote from Wales Online: “When players have that perfect mix of work rate, physicality and intelligence, they can seem a step or two ahead of the curve.”
7. Pieter-Steph Du Toit (South Africa)
Bio: Pieter-Steph Du Toit is an influential flanker for South Africa, known for his relentless work ethic and powerful tackling. Named World Player of the Year in 2019, he continues to deliver outstanding performances for the Springboks.Quote from Wales Online: “World player of the year in 2019, the flanker backed it up with more huge performances in France last year. Each and every time he pulls on the Springbok jersey, you can bank on a colossal effort.”
8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand)
Bio: Ardie Savea is a dynamic number eight for New Zealand, celebrated for his athleticism and leadership on the field. As the reigning World Rugby Player of the Year, Savea is regarded as one of the most talented players in the world.Quote from Wales Online: “Last year’s World Rugby player of the year, the All Black flanker is easily New Zealand’s best player from the current crop. Like Richie McCaw and Kieran Read before him, Savea is the latest talismanic figure in the All Blacks’ pack.”
