Six England players feature between 21 and 100 on the RugbyPass Top 100 list – a reflection of the talent at Steve Borthwick’s disposal despite just one win from four in the Autumn Nations Series.
The RugbyPass Top 100 rankings encompass a holistic assessment of the world’s leading rugby players, factoring in leadership, consistency, raw talent, and off-field influence. It was compiled by rugby writers and experts from across the rugby-playing world.
Courtney Lawes is the lowest-ranked of the group, appearing at 92. Positioned alongside names like Jasper Wiese and Ange Capuozzo, Lawes maintains a place on the list despite the emergence of younger stars. His ranking highlights the respect the Brive veteran commands even though he’s retired from England duty.
Bristol loosehead prop Ellis Genge is next at 77. He’s ranked among players such as Codie Taylor and Darcy Graham.
Racing 92 stand-off Owen Farrell is ranked 64, sitting near players like Damian McKenzie and Rieko Ioane. His position acknowledges his ongoing influence as a playmaker and leader while recognizing the emergence of more dynamic backs who have risen higher on the list. Although Farrell – who remains in Lions contention – is currently out injured, he remains a major figure int the game.
Ben Earl occupies the 50th spot, representing the middle ground of the rankings. Positioned alongside Levani Botia and Rob Valetini, Earl’s ranking underlines the intense competition among back-row forwards.
Jack Willis is placed at 34, making him one of the higher-ranked English players on the list. The Toulouse star’s ranking places him among some of the world’s top loose forwards, including Siya Kolisi and Josh van der Flier, reinforcing his growing reputation despite currently being out of contention in Test rugby.
Maro Itoje leads the English contingent, ranked at 21. Just outside the top tier, Itoje stands among players like Damian de Allende and Will Skelton. A return to form this year after a few relatively quiet years by his standards has certainly helped.
The rankings of these six players highlight the breadth of English rugby talent and the challenges posed by an increasingly competitive global landscape.
Ranks 20 to 11 will be revealed on 10 December 2024.
View the RugbyPass Top 100 list below:
