The 100 Best Players in the United Rugby Championship – Ranked from Lowest to Highest
The United Rugby Championship (URC) continues to showcase some of the best rugby talent across Europe and South Africa, with clubs battling for supremacy in one of the most competitive leagues in the sport. This season has seen incredible performances from established stars and rising talents, proving that the league is packed with world-class players.
We have taken a closer look at the standout performers in the URC and ranked the 100 best players based on their impact, consistency, and influence on their teams. From powerful props to electrifying backs, this list highlights the players who have dominated the competition and shaped the season.
100. Huw Jones
Huw Jones has been a key player for Glasgow Warriors, known for his intelligent runs and strong defensive work. His ability to break defensive lines makes him a dangerous presence in midfield.
99. Toa Halafihi
Toa Halafihi has been a crucial part of Benetton’s back row, bringing power and versatility. His ball-carrying skills and defensive strength make him a valuable asset to the team.
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98. Daniel Thomas
Daniel Thomas has been a consistent performer for Cardiff, offering leadership and tenacity. His ability to dictate the pace of the game makes him a reliable force in the back row.
97. Ben Carter
Ben Carter has established himself as a strong second-row option for Dragons. His lineout skills and physicality in open play have made him a key part of their forward pack.
96. Matteo Canali
Matteo Canali has been an important figure for Zebre, using his height and strength effectively in the second row. His defensive contributions and set-piece work are crucial for his team.
95. Jarod Cairns
Jarod Cairns has shown great promise in the Lions’ back row. His ability to make crucial tackles and secure turnovers has earned him recognition in the URC.
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94. Ben-Jason Dixon
Ben-Jason Dixon has been a consistent force for the Stormers, bringing aggression and work rate. His versatility in the back row allows him to cover multiple positions effectively.
93. Adre Smith
Adre Smith is a second-row powerhouse for the Stormers, known for his strength in scrums and lineouts. His defensive work and leadership on the field make him a valuable team member.
92. Canan Moodie
Canan Moodie has emerged as one of the most exciting young wings in the URC. His speed, agility, and finishing ability have made him a key attacking weapon for the Bulls.
91. Neethling Fouche
Neethling Fouche has been a dependable prop for the Stormers, excelling in scrummaging and set-piece stability. His strength and endurance make him a dominant presence in the front row.
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90. Onisi Ratave
Onisi Ratave is a dynamic winger for Benetton, known for his explosive pace and powerful running. His ability to beat defenders and create scoring opportunities makes him a key player.
89. Ellis Mee
Ellis Mee has been a rising star for the Scarlets, showing his potential as a versatile back. His agility and decision-making under pressure have impressed many.
88. Joseph Dweba
Joseph Dweba has been a crucial hooker for the Stormers, combining power with excellent set-piece execution. His leadership and aggressive playing style make him a vital asset.
87. Matt Scott
Matt Scott has been a consistent midfield performer for Edinburgh. His experience, defensive solidity, and playmaking ability add balance to his team’s backline.
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86. Matt Gallagher
Matt Gallagher has been an important fullback for Benetton, offering reliability under the high ball and strong counter-attacking skills. His positional awareness makes him a defensive rock.
85. Tom Farrell
Tom Farrell has been a reliable center for Munster, using his strength and vision to create attacking opportunities. His defensive commitment adds to his overall effectiveness.
84. Kyle Rowe
Kyle Rowe has been an exciting attacking option for Glasgow Warriors. His pace and ability to finish off tries make him a constant threat to opposition defenses.
83. Dewi Lake
Dewi Lake has been a standout hooker for Ospreys, known for his powerful ball-carrying and leadership. His accuracy in the lineout and work rate around the pitch make him a crucial player.
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82. Francke Horn
Francke Horn has been a key figure in the Lions’ back row, bringing a high work rate and strong tackling ability. His impact at the breakdown makes him a valuable defensive asset.
81. Rhodri Williams
Rhodri Williams has been an experienced scrum-half for Dragons, offering quick decision-making and excellent distribution. His leadership and control of the game have been vital for his team.
80. Daniel du Plessis
Daniel du Plessis has been a consistent performer for the Stormers, using his sharp attacking instincts to break defensive lines. His ability to create space for his teammates makes him a valuable center.
79. Erich Cronje
Erich Cronje has been a reliable midfielder for the Lions, known for his physicality and vision. His defensive awareness and ball-handling skills allow him to control the tempo in attack.
78. Cameron Hanekom
Cameron Hanekom is a promising young back-rower for the Bulls, bringing energy and aggression. His ability to win turnovers and make big tackles has made him one to watch.
77. Matt Currie
Matt Currie has been a rising star for Edinburgh, showing excellent pace and agility as a center. His ability to exploit defensive gaps makes him a dangerous attacking option.
76. Sean O’Brien
Sean O’Brien has been a strong presence for Munster, using his physicality and defensive discipline to control the breakdown. His ability to link up play makes him a key player in transition.
75. Euan Ferrie
Euan Ferrie has been an exciting back-row talent for Glasgow Warriors, known for his high work rate and tenacious tackling. His ability to disrupt opposition attacks is invaluable.
74. Thomas Young
Thomas Young has been a standout for Cardiff, combining leadership with an impressive ability to win turnovers. His experience and tactical intelligence help dictate play in the back row.
73. David Kriel
David Kriel has been a consistent performer for the Bulls, using his size and power to break tackles. His versatility in the backline makes him a useful asset.
72. Kyle Steyn
Kyle Steyn has been one of the most exciting wingers for Glasgow Warriors, known for his electric pace and finishing ability. His knack for scoring crucial tries has been a major boost for his team.
71. Marcel Theunissen
Marcel Theunissen has been a workhorse for the Stormers, offering excellent defensive coverage and support play. His ability to win turnovers makes him a key figure in the back row.
70. Makazole Mapimpi
Makazole Mapimpi is a world-class winger who brings international experience to the Sharks. His finishing ability and blistering speed make him a nightmare for defenders.
69. Shane Daly
Shane Daly has been an exciting attacking option for Munster, known for his versatility and counter-attacking ability. His positional awareness and speed make him a key backline player.
68. Johan Grobbelaar
Johan Grobbelaar has been a reliable hooker for the Bulls, excelling in scrummaging and lineout execution. His leadership and consistency make him a vital part of the forward pack.
67. Tom O’Toole
Tom O’Toole has been a powerhouse prop for Ulster, bringing immense strength and technical skill. His scrummaging ability and work around the field make him one of the top front-rowers in the URC.
66. Muhamed Hasa
Muhamed Hasa has been a promising young talent for Zebre, showing great potential as a prop. His mobility and ability to carry the ball make him a valuable forward.
65. Thomas Clarkson
Thomas Clarkson has been a dominant prop for Leinster, providing stability in the scrum and strong carrying ability. His work rate in defense and attack makes him a crucial player.
64. Thomas Ahern
Thomas Ahern has been a standout second-row player for Munster, known for his aerial ability in lineouts and defensive presence. His athleticism makes him a force in open play.
63. Dylan Tierney-Martin
Dylan Tierney-Martin has been a solid hooker for Connacht, excelling in set-piece execution and breakdown work. His leadership on the field has been crucial for his team’s structure.
62. Angus O’Brien
Angus O’Brien has been an excellent fullback for the Dragons, known for his kicking game and counter-attacking ability. His composure under pressure makes him a key figure in the backline.
61. Matt Fagerson
Matt Fagerson has been a dominant back-rower for Glasgow Warriors, bringing physicality and endurance to the pack. His ability to carry the ball effectively makes him one of the best loose forwards in the competition.
60. Niall Murray
Niall Murray has been a towering presence in Connacht’s second row, using his height and physicality to dominate lineouts. His ability to disrupt opposition mauls makes him a key defensive asset.
59. Sam Wainwright
Sam Wainwright has been a dependable prop for the Scarlets, excelling in scrummaging and set-piece stability. His strength and endurance make him a dominant presence in the front row.
58. Alex Kendellen
Alex Kendellen has developed into a reliable back-rower for Munster, known for his work rate and strong defensive contributions. His ability to win turnovers adds significant value to his team.
57. Sam Lousi
Sam Lousi has been a standout second-row option for the Scarlets, known for his aggressive tackling and ball-carrying ability. His physicality makes him a nightmare for opponents.
56. Marnus van der Merwe
Marnus van der Merwe has been a consistent performer for the Scarlets, excelling as a hooker. His accuracy in lineouts and strength in the scrum have made him an essential part of the forward pack.
55. Stafford McDowall
Stafford McDowall has been a strong presence in the Glasgow Warriors’ midfield, using his size and power to break defensive lines. His ability to create scoring opportunities makes him a key playmaker.
54. Teddy Williams
Teddy Williams has been an exciting young talent for Cardiff, showcasing his physicality and athleticism as a second-row forward. His defensive awareness and tackling ability make him one to watch.
53. Giulio Bertaccini
Giulio Bertaccini has been a crucial playmaker for Zebre, known for his creativity in midfield. His vision and passing ability allow him to unlock opposition defenses.
52. Renzo du Plessis
Renzo du Plessis has been a versatile back-rower for the Lions, excelling in both attack and defense. His ability to cover multiple positions makes him a valuable squad player.
51. Warrick Gelant
Warrick Gelant has been a dynamic fullback for the Stormers, offering pace and flair in attack. His ability to counter-attack and create space for his teammates makes him a crucial component of the backline.
50. Rynhardt Jonker
Rynhardt Jonker has been a hard-hitting center for the Lions, known for his powerful ball carries and strong defensive play. His physicality in midfield makes him a tough opponent.
49. Ben Thomas
Ben Thomas has been a skillful and creative center for Cardiff, capable of unlocking defenses with his quick footwork and passing ability. His versatility has made him a key player.
48. Scott Cummings
Scott Cummings has been a dominant second-row forward for Glasgow Warriors, excelling in lineouts and defensive rucks. His leadership in the pack makes him a crucial player for his team.
47. Manuel Zuliani
Manuel Zuliani has been a rising star for Benetton, showcasing his ability as a physical and aggressive back-rower. His ability to secure turnovers makes him a defensive asset.
46. Harrison Keddie
Harrison Keddie has been a workhorse for the Dragons, providing excellent defensive coverage and leadership. His strong tackling and ability to win rucks make him an important figure.
45. Joe Joyce
Joe Joyce has been a towering presence in Connacht’s second row, using his height and strength to control lineouts. His physicality in the tight exchanges makes him a force to be reckoned with.
44. Rabz Maxwane
Rabz Maxwane has been a lethal winger for the Lions, using his speed and agility to score crucial tries. His ability to beat defenders makes him a constant attacking threat.
43. Josh van der Flier
Josh van der Flier has been a world-class flanker for Leinster, combining speed, strength, and tackling ability. His relentless work rate makes him one of the best loose forwards in the URC.
42. Sebastian Negri
Sebastian Negri has been a rock in Benetton’s back row, using his size and aggression to dominate in contact. His physicality and ball-carrying ability make him a key figure.
41. Sam Talakai
Sam Talakai has been a dependable scrummager for Glasgow Warriors, providing stability in the front row. His technical expertise and experience make him a crucial part of the pack.
40. Paul Boyle
Paul Boyle has been a dynamic back-rower for Connacht, known for his work rate and ability to break the gain line. His leadership and strong carrying ability make him a crucial part of his team.
39. JC Pretorius
JC Pretorius has been a standout performer for the Lions, bringing high energy and physicality. His aggressive defensive play and breakdown skills make him a valuable back-row asset.
38. Nick Timoney
Nick Timoney has been a consistent performer for Ulster, combining speed and strength in the back row. His ability to secure turnovers and make big tackles makes him a defensive rock.
37. James Ryan
James Ryan remains one of Leinster’s most influential second-rowers, excelling in lineouts and set-piece dominance. His leadership and experience make him a key player for both club and country.
36. Corey Domachowski
Corey Domachowski has been a dominant scrummager for Cardiff, using his strength and technique to anchor the front row. His work rate in the loose adds extra value to his game.
35. RG Snyman
RG Snyman has been a world-class lock for Leinster, bringing power and physicality to the second row. His presence in lineouts and defensive mauls makes him a crucial figure in tight games.
34. Federico Ruzza
Federico Ruzza has been a towering presence in Benetton’s pack, showcasing excellent mobility for a lock. His ability to disrupt opposition lineouts makes him a valuable asset.
33. Embrose Papier
Embrose Papier has been a quick-thinking scrum-half for the Bulls, known for his sharp passing and tactical awareness. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game makes him one of the best in his position.
32. Brok Harris
Brok Harris has been an experienced and reliable prop for the Stormers, providing stability in the scrum. His leadership and consistency have been instrumental in his team’s forward dominance.
31. Akker van der Merwe
Akker van der Merwe has been an explosive hooker for the Bulls, combining power with excellent mobility. His ability to score tries and dominate in the set-piece makes him a standout performer.
30. Grant Gilchrist
Grant Gilchrist has been a leader for Edinburgh in the second row, using his experience to control lineouts and rucks. His defensive ability and tackling make him a rock in the pack.
29. Jac Morgan
Jac Morgan has been one of the most consistent back-rowers in the URC, excelling at the breakdown and in open play. His leadership and tackling ability set him apart.
28. Mirco Spagnolo
Mirco Spagnolo has been a powerful presence in Benetton’s front row, showcasing strong scrummaging ability. His work rate in both attack and defense has made him one of the best props in the competition.
27. Gavin Coombes
Gavin Coombes has been a try-scoring machine for Munster, using his strength and awareness to dominate from the back row. His ability to carry the ball and score from close range makes him a crucial player.
26. Sione Tuipulotu
Sione Tuipulotu has been an outstanding center for Glasgow Warriors, bringing pace and power to midfield. His ability to create space for teammates and break defensive lines makes him a dangerous attacking threat.
25. Damian Willemse
Damian Willemse has been one of the most versatile backs in the URC, excelling at fullback and center for the Stormers. His speed, skill, and game intelligence make him an essential part of his team.
24. Edwill van der Merwe
Edwill van der Merwe has been a lethal finisher for the Lions, using his electric pace and footwork to outmaneuver defenders. His ability to score from any position makes him one of the most exciting wingers in the URC.
23. Stuart McCloskey
Stuart McCloskey has been a dominant force in Ulster’s midfield, using his size and strength to break tackles. His ability to offload in contact and create attacking opportunities sets him apart.
22. Rory Darge
Rory Darge has been a crucial part of Glasgow Warriors’ back row, known for his work at the breakdown and strong defensive displays. His leadership and energy make him one of the best flankers in the competition.
21. Cormac Izuchukwu
Cormac Izuchukwu has been a rising star for Ulster, bringing athleticism and versatility to the second row. His ability to cover multiple positions and make an impact in open play makes him one to watch.
20. Caelan Doris
Caelan Doris has been one of the most complete back-rowers in the URC, combining power, agility, and skill. His ability to dominate the breakdown and contribute in attack makes him a crucial player for Leinster.
19. Siya Kolisi
Siya Kolisi is a world-class leader and an inspirational figure for the Sharks. His physicality, breakdown work, and ability to motivate his teammates make him one of the most respected players in rugby.
18. Henco Venter
Henco Venter has been a workhorse in the Glasgow Warriors’ back row, bringing high energy and tackling ability. His ability to disrupt opposition attacks and secure turnovers makes him a valuable team member.
17. John Hodnett
John Hodnett has been a crucial player for Munster, excelling in both attack and defense. His ability to break tackles and contribute at the breakdown makes him one of the most well-rounded back-rowers in the league.
16. Ruben van Heerden
Ruben van Heerden has been a dominant second-rower for the Stormers, using his size and strength to control set-pieces. His ability to secure lineouts and contribute in mauls makes him a key player.
15. Wilco Louw
Wilco Louw has been a powerhouse in the Bulls’ front row, showcasing world-class scrummaging ability. His experience and technical skills make him one of the best props in the competition.
14. Vincent Koch
Vincent Koch has been a crucial part of the Sharks’ pack, excelling in both scrummaging and open play. His ability to anchor the scrum and make strong carries has made him a standout performer.
13. Simone Ferrari
Simone Ferrari has been a rock in Benetton’s front row, known for his scrummaging dominance and defensive contributions. His consistency and work rate have made him one of the best props in the URC.
12. Ewan Ashman
Ewan Ashman has been a standout hooker for Edinburgh, combining power with precise set-piece execution. His ability to carry the ball and secure lineouts makes him a crucial part of the team.
11. Alex Craig
Alex Craig has been a force in the second row for the Scarlets, dominating lineouts and contributing with aggressive tackling. His physicality and leadership have solidified his reputation as a top-tier lock.
10. Jamison Gibson-Park
Jamison Gibson-Park has been one of the best scrum-halves in the URC, dictating Leinster’s attacking tempo with quick decision-making and precise passing. His vision and control make him an elite playmaker.
9. Boan Venter
Boan Venter has been a dominant scrummager for Edinburgh, providing stability in the set-piece and making key contributions in open play. His powerful carries and work rate set him apart.
8. Andre Esterhuizen
Andre Esterhuizen has been a midfield powerhouse for the Sharks, known for his devastating ball carries and strong defensive play. His ability to break tackles and create space makes him a constant threat.
7. Tadhg Beirne
Tadhg Beirne has been one of the best second-rowers in world rugby, combining skill, physicality, and game intelligence. His work at the breakdown and defensive contributions make him a game-changer for Munster.
6. Quan Horn
Quan Horn has been an exciting fullback for the Lions, showcasing excellent counter-attacking skills and defensive solidity. His ability to break the line and create scoring opportunities makes him a standout performer.
5. Paul Hill
Paul Hill has been a crucial prop for Edinburgh, using his technical skills to dominate scrums. His endurance and ability to contribute in open play make him one of the best front-rowers in the URC.
4. Jack Conan
Jack Conan has been a top-class back-rower for Leinster, bringing power and finesse to his game. His ability to carry the ball effectively and contribute defensively makes him one of the most well-rounded players in the league.
3. Gerhard Steenekamp
Gerhard Steenekamp has been one of the most dominant props in the URC, providing power in the scrum and mobility in open play. His ability to hold his own against world-class opposition makes him a crucial player for the Bulls.
2. Elrigh Louw
Elrigh Louw has been a standout performer in the Bulls’ back row, combining brute force with exceptional athleticism. His ability to make dominant carries and big tackles makes him one of the most impactful players in the competition.
1. Ox Nche
Ox Nche has been the best player in the URC, dominating the front row with his scrummaging power and mobility. His ability to contribute in open play, win penalties in the scrum, and lead by example makes him the ultimate front-row force in the league.
