The rugby world is buzzing! Planet Rugby has unveiled its Top 50 Men's Players of 2025, and the rankings are filled with surprises and standout performances. Let's dive into the players who secured spots 11-20, showcasing the incredible talent and impact they had on the sport.
First up, at number 20, we have Dan Sheehan from Ireland, a hooker whose dynamism was instrumental in Ireland's success. He not only helped his team secure four Six Nations wins and autumn victories but also earned the starting hooker position for the British and Irish Lions. A highlight of his season was scoring two tries from mauls in the Six Nations victory against England.
Next, at number 19, is Fraser McReight, an Australian flanker whose breakdown work was crucial for Australia's two Rugby Championship wins. His performance against Argentina, where he made four steals and completed 19 tackles, was a true testament to his skills.
At number 18, we find another Australian, Harry Wilson, a number eight who captained his team to two Rugby Championship wins. A standout moment was his performance against New Zealand, where he carried the ball 18 times for 105 metres and made 16 tackles.
Cam Roigard from New Zealand takes the 17th spot. His speed and control helped his team achieve three Rugby Championship wins and autumn victories. He also shone for the Hurricanes. A notable performance was his assistance in three tries and covering 60 metres against Australia.
At number 16, we have Tadhg Beirne from Ireland, a lock/flanker who played a significant role in Ireland's success, including four Six Nations wins and autumn victories. He also earned the Player of the Series award during the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour. His performance in the Six Nations victory over Italy, where he won 14 lineouts, was remarkable.
Moving on to the top 15, we have Maro Itoje from England, a lock whose dominance in the lineout was a key factor in England's four Six Nations victories and autumn wins. He also captained the British and Irish Lions to their first series victory since 2013. His performance against New Zealand, where he stole five lineouts and made 15 tackles, was outstanding.
At number 14, we see Tom Curry, another England flanker whose excellence at the breakdown powered England's Six Nations campaign and autumn streak. He also delivered world-class performances during the British and Irish Lions Test matches. His performance in the Six Nations demolition of Wales, where he made 20 tackles and forced four turnovers, was exceptional.
Thomas du Toit from South Africa secures the 13th spot. His scrummaging strength anchored South Africa's Championship title and autumn dominance. He was also a major contributor to Bath's treble-winning season. Against Australia, he won four scrum penalties and carried for 50 metres.
At number 12, Ben Earl, an England number eight/flanker, was a driving force behind England's successful Six Nations and Autumn Nations Series. He also helped Saracens reach the Champions Cup. His performance against Australia, where he carried 15 times for 110 metres, made 18 tackles, and scored a try, was impressive.
Finally, at number 11, we have Cheslin Kolbe from South Africa, a wing whose brilliance fueled South Africa's Rugby Championship title and autumn clean sweep. He also helped Racing 92 reach the Champions Cup semi-finals. His winning try and ability to beat seven defenders over 95 metres against Argentina were memorable.
It's clear that England's resurgence is a major storyline, with several players making a significant impact. But here's where it gets controversial... Do you agree with the rankings? Which players do you think deserved a higher spot? Share your thoughts in the comments below! What do you think about the impact of the Wallaby duo and the dominance of England's players?
