The rugby world is buzzing! Planet Rugby has unveiled the next batch of their Top 50 men's players for 2025, and the competition is fierce. This year has been a showcase of incredible talent, with the Springboks continuing their reign and the British & Irish Lions reminding everyone of their prowess. Let's dive into players ranked 40-31 and see who made the cut.
40. Ruan Nortjé (South Africa, lock): Nortjé has become a cornerstone for the Springboks. His work rate is outstanding, and he's proving to be a long-term asset. A standout moment? His performance against France in Paris, where he led the charge after a red card.
39. Ethan Hooker (South Africa, utility back): Hooker's versatility makes him a valuable player for South Africa. He was also nominated for World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year. His first start against the All Blacks in Wellington was a highlight.
38. Fabian Holland (New Zealand, lock): Holland's breakthrough year helped the All Blacks. He also won World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year. His debut against France in Dunedin was a memorable performance.
37. Gregory Alldritt (France, number eight): Alldritt's leadership was key to France's Six Nations win. In the match against Ireland, he carried the ball 25 times, covering 110 meters.
36. Charles Ollivon (France, flanker): A serious knee injury in January 2025, sidelined Ollivon. However, his comeback against Fiji, where he was named Player of the Match, showed his resilience.
35. Jasper Wiese (South Africa, number eight): Wiese's carries were vital for South Africa. His return from suspension saw him deliver a superb performance in the Rugby Championship against the All Blacks.
34. Tommy Freeman (England, wing): Freeman has become England's go-to strike runner. He scored a try in each of the Six Nations matches, with his try against France proving crucial.
33. Len Ikitau (Australia, centre): Ikitau was a defensive anchor for the Wallabies. His attacking display in the final match against the British and Irish Lions was a highlight.
32. Damian de Allende (South Africa, centre): De Allende's physicality was central to South Africa's success. His performance in the return match against the Wallabies in Cape Town was outstanding.
31. Henry Pollock (England, flanker): Pollock's breakthrough helped England. He was a Breakthrough Player nominee. His impact off the bench against New Zealand was significant, proving to be a handful for the All Blacks. But here's where it gets controversial...
What do you think of these rankings? Are there any players you feel were ranked too high or too low? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
