The world of rugby is a fascinating arena, and the props are often the unsung heroes of the game. These players, who toil in the trenches, are the backbone of their respective teams, providing the foundation for success. In this article, I'll delve into the top 10 props in the world right now, according to Planet Rugby, and explore why each one is so crucial to their team's performance.
The Top 10 Props
Thomas du Toit (South Africa): Du Toit is a force to be reckoned with. He can score tries, dominate scrums, and play on both sides of the front row. His impact is such that he was often the turning point in games, wrestling opposition scrums out of the game in the final 20 minutes. For South Africa, he leads from the start, and his influence extends well into the second half.
Ox Nche (South Africa): Nche is the epitome of a modern loosehead prop. He has become synonymous with the South African scrum, and his performance earned him a nomination for the 2025 World Rugby Player of the Year award. His versatility and impact are such that he has turned a one-dimensional role into a multi-faceted vocation, where his performance can make or break a game.
Ellis Genge (England): Genge is one of the most powerful runners in the game, combining strength and athleticism to break through defenses. He is also a key part of an extremely strong England front row, and his leadership is invaluable in the heat of battle. His ability to dominate the scrum and run with the ball makes him a constant threat.
Ethan de Groot (New Zealand): De Groot, a product of rural New Zealand, has what many call 'farmer strength'. He is a wrecking ball in attack, a brick wall in defense, and an immovable object in the scrum. While the All Blacks are still finding their form, De Groot is a key part of their future success, and his performance will be crucial.
Wilco Louw (South Africa): Louw is a scrummaging specialist, seamlessly slotting into the Springboks' matchday squad. He is a key member of the Bulls squad, helping them reach the URC final in 2026. His powerful build is suited to short, powerful outings, but he has proven he can play the full 80 when needed.
Gerhard Steenekamp (South Africa): Steenekamp is a tremendous scrummager who works incredibly well with Wilco Louw. His relentless work rate enables him to get through a tonne of work, which can be devastating for an already tiring defense.
Jean-Baptiste Gros (France): Gros is the only Frenchman on this list, and he is well deserving of his inclusion. He got through a mammoth amount of work in the 2025/26 season, appearing in 40 matches for club and country. Despite Toulon's lack of silverware, Gros reinforced his position as one of the most impressive looseheads in the game.
Danilo Fischetti (Italy): Fischetti achieved success in his first year with Northampton Saints, winning the Premiership final at Twickenham. His 110kg frame packs power, and his slightly shorter stature allows him to position himself in scrummaging angles that others can't. He's now a key player for Italy as they head to Australia for the World Cup.
Ben Tameifuna (Tonga): Tameifuna weighs in at around 150kg and can play on both sides of the scrum. His late arrivals on the field often make the most impact, as evidenced by his brace of tries in three separate substitute appearances in the 2025/26 season. He helped Bordeaux-Bègles reach a final, which they eventually won.
Joe Heyes (England): Heyes had never played a game for England at the start of 2025, but he's now their first-choice tighthead. His work rate and consistency are exemplary, having played 62 games in just two seasons. For Leicester, he embodies the old-school Tigers prop, but his all-round game has translated onto the international stage, earning him the 2025 England Player of the Year title.
Personal Commentary
What makes this list particularly fascinating is the diversity of skills and roles these props bring to the game. From scrummaging specialists to powerful runners, these players are the backbone of their teams, and their impact is often underestimated. The Springboks, for instance, have four players on this list, showcasing the depth of talent in South African rugby.
In my opinion, the key to success in rugby is not just individual brilliance but the ability to work seamlessly as a team. These props are the glue that holds their respective teams together, and their performance is a testament to the importance of every player's role.
As a rugby fan, I find it inspiring to see players like Thomas du Toit and Ox Nche, who have elevated the prop position to new heights. Their versatility and impact are a reminder that every position is crucial, and the game is a true team effort.
