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Top 50
Women's Rugby
Players 2025
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Top 50 Women's Rugby Players 2025
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Since the Women's Rugby World Cup year has rolled around, we can look back over the last seven months and quite comfortably say that we have been treated to some brilliant rugby. Whether that's Aoife Wafer barging her way to the try line in the Women's Six Nations or Portia Woodman-Wickliffe mesmerising us with her pace and footwork in the Pacific Four Series. We've enjoyed watching every moment in the build up to the pinnacle event in our sport.
However, with so many incredible players in the women's game right now, and ahead of this marquee event in the rugby calendar, it has got us thinking about who the best female rugby players are at the moment, and indeed the pivotal question - who is the best women's rugby player in the world right now?
So we've done our own run down of the world's Top 50 women's rugby players for 2025:
Top 50
List
Grid
11-20 will be revealed on 8 August 2025
More players will be revealed over the coming days, come back tomorrow to see who has made our Top 50.
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Choosing the Best Women’s Rugby Players
As there are so many stars in the women's game right now, and as the world's top teams descend on England for the Women's World Cup, who the best players are is of course a huge talking point, and as such, picking the 50 has to be carefully considered.
There are many different factors to take into account, from hard-built reputations that stem from years of service, to individual leadership qualities, unmatched talent, pure athletic ability and much more - in other words, it's not a simple task.
This is why we've turned to our global panel of expert journalists, who after much discussion, analysis and evaluation have curated and agreed the list for the current Top 50 women's rugby players in the world. These include: Lucy Lomax, Imogen Ainsworth, Finn Morton, Ned Lester, Franscisco Isaac, Willy Billiard and Joe Harvey.
Have your say on RugbyPass’ Top 50 Women’s Rugby Players
We know there'll be disagreements and alternatives to what we've come up with, but it goes without saying, this isn't a closed debate but an invitation to converse and celebrate the players that make up the game we love.
We should add there are a few caveats as to who is eligible for the rankings:
- Players on the list must have played international 15s rugby this calendar year
- Players who are currently injured have been included
- Off-field influence has not been taken into consideration for this list, sorry Ilona. (Please see our honourable mentions list!)
[{"id":"7134","name":"Portia Woodman-Wickliffe","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/portia-woodman\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"It is hard to argue against Portia Woodman-Wickliffe being the Greatest Of All Time.\n\nRenowned for her pace, metallic hand offs and try-scoring prowess, Woodman-Wickliffe uses her athletic abilities and physicality to devastating effect.\n\nThe New Zealander continues to break records, recently becoming the all-time leading try scorer for the Black Ferns with 48 tries in 28 Tests. She has scored three or more tries in a single Test seven times to date.\n\nThe winger is the top try-scorer in Rugby World Cup history (men\u2019s and women\u2019s) and has won two Rugby World Cups in 2017 and 2022, two sevens World Cups in 2013 and 2018, and two Olympic gold medals.\n\nThe 2017 World Rugby Player of the Year only came out of retirement this season and continues to showcase why she is the biggest name in the women\u2019s game.","copy3":"\u201c She\u2019s a powerful player, a fast player, and that\u2019s what people see. How is she going to go from great to great? That\u2019s exactly what she\u2019s doing, she\u2019s evolving, she\u2019s continuing to evolve.\u201d\n\n- Blues and Black Ferns team mate Ruahei Demant","copy2":"Woodman-Wickliffe comes from a family of sporting internationals with her father and uncle having played for the All Blacks and her aunt a former netballer with the Silver Ferns","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7134.png.webp?maxw=444","number":1,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7081","name":"Pauline Bourdon-Sansus","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/pauline-bourdon\/","country":"France","team":"114","copy1":"The France scrum-half known as \u201cPopo\u201d has been a cornerstone of her country and club Stade Toulousain for many years. Legend has it (and it's true!) that she once tore off her own plaster cast just so she could play with her friends.\n\nA natural leader on and off the pitch, she\u2019s known for her vision, her ability to switch the play, and her audacity - she can slot a 50-metre drop goal just because the moment calls for it.","copy3":"\u201cPauline\u2019s arrival probably changed the French team\u2019s game more than any other player. For years, France fell just short - often for lack of variety. A scrum-half who can shift to fly-half with ease and kick brilliantly, she changed everything.\u201d\n\n- French newspaper Le Figaro","copy2":"Since August 2023, Pauline has been married to former France teammate Laure Sansus with whom she used to compete for the number nine shirt. The couple has recently had their first child.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7081.png.webp?maxw=444","number":2,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/France.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/910.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877406"]},{"id":"7168","name":"Zoe Aldcroft","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/zoe-aldcroft\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"This season\u2019s England Player of the Year, Zoe Aldcroft is modest and quietly spoken but really comes alive on a rugby pitch. Versatile, pacey and does the dog work.\n\nThe England captain was crowned World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year after an outstanding run of performances in 2021 and has continued to shine in the years since.\n\nHer work rate is unlike no other, her defence is solid and she\u2019s likely to be the first arriving player at a ruck whenever her side is making their way up the pitch. She\u2019s reliable, consistent and leads from the front.","copy2":"Aldcroft has a match day superstition in the form of a hand knitted Jonny Wilkinson doll which she takes in her bag to every game she plays as a good luck charm.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s a winner. She demonstrates quality actions in every performance. She\u2019s very, very consistent. Her words aren\u2019t cheap. When she speaks, they\u2019re very powerful.\u201d\n\n- England Head Coach John Mitchell","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7168.png.webp?maxw=444","number":3,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7223","name":"Alex Tessier","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/alex-tessier\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"There are not too many players in the world you would single out and say are essential to their team\u2019s success. But Alex Tessier is one of them.\n\nOver the past 18 months the fly-half and centre has been the lynchpin in Canada\u2019s charge to second in the World Rugby rankings and has been a superb captain in Sophie de Goede\u2019s absence.\n\nA driving force in attack for Canada and integral to the side who have confounded opponents with their all-out style of play. The 2024 World Player of the Year nominee is a player to watch as Canada look to go all the way at this year\u2019s Rugby World Cup.","copy3":"\u201cAlex has grown as a leader and made huge strides as a rugby player, especially in the last three years since fully committing to rugby as a full-time player. That commitment has made a visible difference. It\u2019s been amazing to witness that growth.\u201d\n\n- K\u00e9vin Rouet, Canada women\u2019s head coach","copy2":"Tessier once forgot to shake the referee\u2019s hand at the coin toss in her first game as Canada captain and openly admits she usually wins the battle for \u2018most awkward\u2019.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7223.png.webp?maxw=444","number":4,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"13309","name":"Aoife Wafer","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/aoife-wafer\/","country":"Ireland","team":"115","copy1":"At the age of 22, Wafer has already established herself as one of the world\u2019s best players. The back rower was the first Irish woman to be named Women\u2019s Six Nations Player of the Championship, and by the end of the 2025 competition, she\u2019d scored 12 tries in 15 Tests.\n\nOne of the game\u2019s most destructive number eights around the ruck, she\u2019s instinctive and unrelenting in her ball carrying.\n\nWafer scored twice in Ireland\u2019s historic WXV win over New Zealand in 2024, and was named in the 2024 World Rugby Dream Team.","copy2":"Wafer initially wore a scrum cap to hide her long hair when playing in a team of all boys, so she wouldn\u2019t be singled out for being a girl. She now wears a red scrum cap in memory of her late grandmother, as it helped her spot Wafer on the pitch.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s such a brilliant athlete but she is a really good person. It\u2019s her willingness and want to constantly learn. Defences know her name, teams are highlighting her and that just shows, there is a fear factor from other teams.\u201d\n\n- Fiona Hayes, Former Ireland prop","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/13309.png.webp?maxw=444","number":5,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Ireland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/911.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877515"]},{"id":"9500","name":"Megan Jones","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/megan-jones\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"The former sevens player brightens and adds to any environment she enters into.\n\nThe two-time Olympian has battled her way back from numerous injuries such is her resilience and grit. Despite her setbacks she always plays with a smile on her face and it\u2019s easy to see why the centre was voted PWR Player of the Season just gone- she\u2019s instinctive, skilful, barges through holes in defences, pops up in the right places and makes opportunities for players around her.\n\nNot afraid to step up in the big moments, the then 20-year-old scored in England\u2019s semi-final win over France at the 2017 Women\u2019s World Cup.","copy3":"\u201cMeg Jones oozes threat, charisma, and the sort of talent you can't coach. She's both a phenomenal leader - five minutes in her company is enough to have you running through walls for her - and someone capable of simply taking matters into her own hands, and winning fixtures on a whim.\u201d\n\n- Claire Thomas, Rugby Commentator and Journalist","copy2":"Born in Cardiff, her dad lived only ten minutes away from Cardiff Arms Park, Jones is a fluent Welsh speaker but qualified for England through her mother.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/9500.png.webp?maxw=444","number":6,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"6918","name":"Ruahei Demant","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/ruahei-demant\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"Ruahei Demant was named Player of the Final after guiding the Black Ferns to an unforgettable Rugby World Cup triumph in 2022. World Rugby later recognised Demant as the Player of the Year at their annual awards.\n\nThree years on and it\u2019s more of the same from the playmaker, who was among the standouts for the Blues in Super Rugby Aupiki and continues to perform at a world-class level in the black jersey. As the Black Ferns\u2019 co-captain and chief game-driver, the fly-half will play a core role in New Zealand\u2019s bid to defend their World Cup crown.","copy3":"\u201cShe's led the Black Ferns phenomenally. She's played a phenomenal brand of rugby. She's been consistently the best player on the field and I give her all the credit. She's been outstanding.\u201d\n\n- Wayne Smith, former Black Ferns coach","copy2":"Ruahei and sister Kiritapu are the first Maori sisters to both represent the Black Ferns. Kiritapu debuted for the national team in June 2015, before Ruahei entered the international arena for the first time three years later.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6918.png.webp?maxw=444","number":7,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7235","name":"Hope Rogers","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/hope-rogers\/","country":"United States of America","team":"160","copy1":"There are few props more formidable than Hope Rogers. A tenacious carrier, Rogers has made her intention to be the best loosehead in the world clear. Rogers made her USA debut in 2013, and she has proved her class on the world stage ever since.\n\nThe barnstorming forward is the most-capped women\u2019s Eagle of all time and a prolific try scorer, often finding her way to the line with relentless strength. She continues to be a standout performer for the USA, making impactful contributions on both sides of the ball. \n\nRugby World Cup 2025 will be her fourth World Cup, which is a testament to her long-standing commitment to the game and unfaltering pursuit to be the world\u2019s best.","copy3":"\u201cIf I had 15 Hope Rogers, we would be world number one. She\u2019s a role model, she\u2019s a testament to resilience, but she\u2019s also extremely skilful. You\u2019ll see that every impact she has is a positive one; she goes forward.\u201d\n\n- Sione Fukofuka, USA head coach","copy2":"Hope loves Christmas and is apparently able to quote all of \u2018The Grinch\u2019 (Jim Carrey version) line for line.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7235.png.webp?maxw=444","number":8,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/United-States-of-America.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1014.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877570"]},{"id":"13332","name":"Morgane Bourgeois","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/morgane-bourgeois\/","country":"France","team":"114","copy1":"Thanks to her exceptionally accurate kicking game and nose for the try line- Morgane Bourgeois or \u201cMomo\u201d as she is known, was the top points scorer in the 2025 Women\u2019s Six Nations.\n\nThe three-time French champion with Bordeaux\u2019s Lionnes has an in-built ability to shift the momentum of a match under pressure and has ice running through her veins when it comes to stepping up in the big moments with the boot, which could prove vital for France at the upcoming World Cup.\n\nThe 22-year-old is often compared to compatriot and Women\u2019s Player of the Decade for 2010\u20132020 Jessy Tr\u00e9mouli\u00e8re but is carving out her own path for Les Bleues.","copy3":"\u201cFullback suits her better\u2014it gives her more freedom and matches her profile, with her speed and ability to find gaps. I once selected her on the wing; she wasn\u2019t thrilled. I brought up Ange Capuozzo. She replied she was more of a Thomas Ramos\u201d\n\n- Fran\u00e7ois Ratier, Bordeaux coach","copy2":"\u201cMomo\u201d has another passion she hopes to turn into a career: writing. With a journalism Masters degree, she chronicled her 2025 Six Nations exclusively for RugbyPass and is doing it again from inside the camp during the 2025 Rugby World Cup.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/13332.png.webp?maxw=444","number":9,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/France.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/910.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877406"]},{"id":"6867","name":"Kaipo Olsen-Baker","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/kaipo-olsen-baker\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"Among a stellar cohort of loose forwards in the Black Ferns picture, Kaipo Olsen-Baker has all but selected herself week-in, week-out with her knack for consistent go-forward. The Gisborne-raised power house has resided in Christchurch since 2024, donning Matatu colours in Super Rugby Aupiki, where she has dominated the stat sheets.\n\nAt just 23 years of age, the former schoolgirl sensation has established herself as a premier threat on both sides of the ball and pushed Liana Mikaele-Tu\u2019u aside as the go-to number eight for New Zealand.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s a super unique athlete in terms of what she brings to the team. Her explosive speed and power are amazing.\u201d\n\n- Whitney Hansen, Matatu head coach","copy2":"Kaipo joins her two older sisters, Te Uarangi and Te Mai Ora, in playing for the Manawatu Cyclones in the Farah Palmer Cup","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6867.png.webp?maxw=444","number":10,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7179","name":"Ellie Kildunne","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/ellie-kildunne\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"When formidable former England full back Danielle \u2018Nolli\u2019 Waterman retired, many wondered who would ever be able to fill her boots. Enter, hot stepping fullback Ellie Kildunne.\n\nKildunne has stated her desire to be the best player in the world, male or female and after being named 2024 World Rugby Player of the Year, she has staked her claim.\n\nA fan favourite, the 25-year-old has built a solid following both in the quarters for Harlequins and while wearing the Red Rose for a reason. One of the most electrifying talents with ball in hand, her speed and footwork wreak havoc on defenders across the world.\n\nSince making a try-scoring England debut aged 18, her attacking flair and speed have led to many stand-out tries across her career to date, including one in the 2022 World Cup final against New Zealand.","copy3":"\u201cEllie\u2019s attitude to wanting to better her best is what has made her truly world class and at times, unplayable. A beautifully balanced runner and a demon finisher packed with northern grit. Scarily, there may yet be extra gears to come.\u201d\n\n- Nick Heath, Rugby Commentator and Broadcaster","copy2":"A big Liverpool football fan growing up, Kildunne says her sporting hero was Fernando Torres and the Spice Girl Melanie C was her fashion inspiration","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7179.png.webp?maxw=444","number":11,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7187","name":"Abigail Dow","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/abigail-dow\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"As with any good winger, Dow scores tries for fun. Named in the World Rugby Dream Team after an impressive 2024, when the ball reaches Dow\u2019s hands out wide, the opposition collectively take a short inhale.\n\nTop of the 2025 Six Nations try scoring charts, she also led the way in metres carried, metres gained and line breaks for the championship. The 27-year-old is fast, elusive and has world class finishing ability in her genes.\n\nHer bubbly personality and ability to not take herself too seriously, make her a one of a kind player who thrives when given the freedom to express herself.","copy3":"\u201cThat girl is someone that I\u2019ve watched even before I joined the Red Roses. Her speed is obviously a super strength, but she\u2019s got an incredible skill-set and the rest of the team know that she is always going to put them on the front foot.\u201d\n\n- Lou Meadows, England Attack Coach","copy2":"Dow is known for her crocheting abilities within the England camp and has started her own Instagram page @abbydowcrochet, she also has a degree in mechanical engineering from Imperial College London.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7187.png.webp?maxw=444","number":12,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7170","name":"Alex Matthews","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/alex-matthews\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"A cornerstone of the English pack, Matthews was the youngest member of the 2014 World Cup-winning squad. She has remained a consistent performer over her 14-year career to date across sevens and 15s, a testament to her versatility and formidable presence. Matthews is heading into her fourth Rugby World Cup this year having already competed at the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.\n\nA Gloucester Hartpury stalwart since she joined in 2022, Matthews has recently re-signed for the triple PWR champions, for which she has been an integral part of their success. Matthews embodies resilience, and her high work rate sets her apart as one of the best players in the world.","copy3":"\u201cAlex is one of those rare players who is so consistent at every level of rugby she plays, she rarely has a poor game at club or international level.\u201d\n\n- Dan Murphy, Gloucester-Hartpury Head of Rugby","copy2":"Alex played for England Sevens alongside her sister Fran, and in the 15s game they won the Premiership together with Richmond","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7170.png.webp?maxw=444","number":13,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"6922","name":"Katelyn Vaha'akolo","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/katelyn-vahaakolo\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"Former rugby league star Katelyn Vaha\u2019akolo has brought an arsenal of firepower to the 15 aside game since her 2023 code switch.\n\nHer debut season with the Blues in Super Rugby Aupiki was rewarded with an immediate call-up to the national team, and by the international season\u2019s end she was recognised with the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year award. In 2025, no one in Aupiki offloaded the ball more than the winger.\n\nThe speedster has touched down for 24 tries in just 18 appearances for the Black Ferns, demanding a spot in the starting XV even when competing for selection with New Zealand\u2019s famously talented outside back stocks.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s been obsessed with getting better, up early doing skills, just doing extra work. She\u2019s improved massively this year. She has been a standout player in our eyes.\u201d \n\n- Allan Bunting, Black Ferns Director of Rugby","copy2":"While hard to believe given her success, Vaha\u2019akolo only picked up a rugby ball with the idea of playing in 2020. Within a year, she was in New Zealand\u2019s national rugby league team","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6922.png.webp?maxw=444","number":14,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7213","name":"Emily Tuttosi","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/emily-tuttosi\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"For the best part of a decade Emily Tuttosi has been one of Canada\u2019s most consistent performers. Regularly trading places with Ireland\u2019s Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald in the front-row at Exeter Chiefs has driven Tuttosi\u2019s game higher. Much to the benefit of Canada.\n\nNamed in the 2022 World Rugby Women\u2019s 15s Dream Team of the Year, the hooker is one of her country\u2019s most reliable performers as a starter and off the bench as she matches unerring accuracy at the set-piece with formidable ball carrying.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s one of the most consistent players you could ask for. When Tuttosi is on the field you know exactly what you\u2019re getting. Her tackle completion is exceptional. Her reliability is unmatched. She perfectly embodies what Canadian rugby is all about: hard work, resilience and grit.\u201d\n\n- Kevin Rouet, Canada Head Coach","copy2":"Tuttosi was awarded her first Rugby Canada cap alongside team mate and friend DaLeaka Menin. Both front-row forwards spent five years together at the University of Calgary and went over to England to play for Loughborough Lightning in the PWR together","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7213.png.webp?maxw=444","number":15,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"6770","name":"Madoussou Fall","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/madoussou-fall\/","country":"France","team":"114","copy1":"Born in Guinea and raised in the suburbs of Paris from the age of seven, Madoussou Fall-Raclot is one of the cornerstones of the French pack.\n\nTeased for her height \u2013 growing to 1.80 metres tall at only 16 years of age, she switched from basketball to rugby and turned her height into a weapon. It is now a familiar sight to see multiple defenders clinging to her when driving forwards with ball in hand.\n\nIn 2022, she was named in the Women\u2019s Dream Team at the World Rugby Awards.","copy3":"\u201cWhen you\u2019ve got a teammate putting in a massive hit, you just want to do the same. She\u2019s a real leader, in attack and defence. It\u2019s definitely better having her with us than against us\u201d\n\n- France back-row Charlotte Escudero","copy2":"At 1.87m, she\u2019s the tallest player in the French squad. Fall-Raclot grew very fast in her youth which earned her the nickname \u2018the giraffe\u2019 which became the symbol of her wellness clothing brand, Imani","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6770.png.webp?maxw=444","number":16,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/France.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/910.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877406"]},{"id":"9303","name":"Neve Jones","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/neve-jones\/","country":"Ireland","team":"115","copy1":"Despite her size, measuring only five foot two inches, the hooker has made a career out of challenging the impossible, knocking back taller and heavier rivals, the formidable tackler is consistently disrupting opposition attacks or getting over the gain line.\n\nNever one to shy away from contact, her work rate is unrelenting, with the 26-year-old redefining a hooker\u2019s role in the women\u2019s game.\n\nA three-time PWR champion with Gloucester-Hartpury, she was named in the 2025 Women's Six Nations Team of the Championship after some stirring performances.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s just an absolute warrior! She gets through so much work, she\u2019s fearless. You want people that other teams don\u2019t want to play against and Neve is definitely that girl.\u201d\n\n- Tatatyana Heard, Gloucester-Hartpury team mate","copy2":"Neve works as a nanny when she\u2019s not playing or training and skimboarding is one of her many talents. ","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/9303.png.webp?maxw=444","number":17,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Ireland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/911.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877515"]},{"id":"6777","name":"Gabrielle Vernier","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/gabrielle-vernier\/","country":"France","team":"114","copy1":"After giving tennis a go, Gabrielle Vernier switched to rugby aged ten. Small in stature she quickly stood out with her explosiveness and timing, with her consistency in the midfield earning her over half a century of international caps.\n\nVernier had arguably her best year so far in 2023, when she won France\u2019s best international player, Six Nations Player of the Championship and was selected in the World Rugby Dream Team.\n\nWhether it is scoring tries, offloading or breaking through tackles, the centre offers a remarkable skillset when Les Bleues are on the offence.","copy2":"In November 2018, Vernier was one of the first 24 French women to sign a part-time federal contract in 15s - allowing her to compete while working. She\u2019s also a structural engineer","copy3":"\u201cSharp, cutting runs are her trademark. She always seems one step ahead of defences thanks to her vision and anticipation.\u201d\n\n- Nicolas Tranier, Blagnac coach","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6777.png.webp?maxw=444","number":18,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/France.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/910.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877406"]},{"id":"7169","name":"Abbie Ward","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/abbie-ward\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"After having a baby in July 2023, many questioned whether Abbie Ward would make it back to the top level of the game, but the lock has achieved a remarkable feat, arguably playing the best rugby of her career post-partum.\n\nThe second row puts her head where many others wouldn\u2019t put their elbow (see her pinned Instagram reel for the scar she picked up earlier this year). Her height, wingspan and athletic prowess in the line out make her a reliable target and a menace.\n\nTerritory is always taken advantage of and opposition throws are never safe, the lock was joint top of lineout steals alongside England team mate Rosie Galligan in this year\u2019s Six Nations.","copy3":"\u201cShe consistently delivers above and beyond. She does all the hard graft and she never gives up, very aggressive, very feisty and you need that player in your squad who fights tooth and nail for everything.\u201d\n\n- Kat Merchant, former England wing and 2014 World Cup winner","copy2":"By her own admission, Abbie is petrified of horses, she said: \u201cI just think they\u2019re massive. I\u2019m scared of some of our (England) girls because of what they can do, and a horse is about four times the size.\u201d","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7169.png.webp?maxw=444","number":19,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"13185","name":"Laetitia Royer","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/laetitia-royer\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"Eight years after taking up rugby Laetitia Royer was named in the 2024 World Rugby Women\u2019s 15s Dream Team of the Year.\n\nThe 34-year-old, who will join Saracens after the World Cup after five years in France, has become imperious on the field and has thrived in the Canada starting XV for the past 18 months.\n\nNot selected for the 2021 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, the lock has been fuelled by that disappointment for the last three years.\n\nWhether it has been her resolute defence, work at the breakdown, at the set-piece or in attack, Royer has excelled in all of it.","copy3":"\u201cUnfortunately, for the last World Cup I made the decision not to select her. I really appreciated what she said to me after the selection: \u2018No problem K\u00e9vin. I\u2019ll prove you wrong, and you\u2019ll see \u2013 I\u2019ll be at the next World Cup\u2019. \u201cAnd honestly, she has been proving me wrong ever since.\u201d\n\n- K\u00e9vin Rouet, Canada head coach","copy2":"Royer has created Pok\u00e9mon style cards of her Canadian team mates heading to the World Cup, including what makes them tick, outlining their strongest ability on the field and what they like to do off the pitch","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/13185.png.webp?maxw=444","number":20,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"7167","name":"Sarah Bern","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/sarah-bern\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"The footwork of a sevens player, the pace of a winger, the strength of a prop (of which she is), Bern has built herself a fearsome reputation on the international scene. The tighthead\u2019s bulldozing runs through gaps and into space belies her position on the field.\n\nNo matter who the opposition is, she makes metres with ball in hand, whilst being ridiculously hard to bring down with three to four players required to stop her. The front row also holds her own in the scrum, and will not be denied a try when in range. Bern is also doing great things on social media as a healthy role model to young, aspiring players.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s an unbelievable athlete. The work that she gets through, how quick she can run and then hold up a scrum like she does, is remarkable\u201d\n\n- Natasha \u2018Mo\u2019 Hunt, England scrum-half","copy2":"Bern has played all over the pitch, starting out in the backs, settling as a six at under 20s level, then moving her way into the front row for the Red Roses where she has excelled","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7167.png.webp?maxw=444","number":21,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7175","name":"Claudia MacDonald","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/claudia-macdonald\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"Her resilience deserves an award in itself. Sidelined twice with a serious neck injury, the Red Rose thought her career was over on more than one occasion. However, her ability to not only return to the seriously competitive England wing position, but to thrive in it is really testament to her raw athletic ability and killer instinct when handling a rugby ball.\n\nNot afraid to cut infield and use her pace as a weapon, if you blink you\u2019ll miss her.","copy3":"\u201cAn appointment-to-view athlete, who belies the fact she's only been playing a decade by looking like she's been snapping defenders' ankles since birth. A razor-sharp human pinball with one of the game's very best smiles.\u201d\n\n- Claire Thomas, Rugby Commentator and Journalist","copy2":"The wing married Ireland hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald this summer. The pair met when playing for Wasps in the then-called Premier 15s, but have never played against each other. Could that all change come the World Cup?","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7175.png.webp?maxw=444","number":22,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7080","name":"Manae Feleu","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/manae-feleu\/","country":"France","team":"114","copy1":"Like an octopus tackling non-stop, disrupting opposition lineouts and winning turnovers, Manae Feleu is an absolute poison in the French defence.\n\nThe lock dabbled in several sports - karate, athletics, volleyball, basketball - before rugby took hold at age 11. At 15, her passion deepened during three years of study in New Zealand, where she started out playing centre and fullback.\n\nThe 25-year-old shows maturity beyond her years and has captained the France team since October 2023.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s pretty quiet, but she\u2019s always known how to speak up when it matters. She always finds the right words. Everyone can feel something when she speaks -you want to listen.\u201d\n\n- Romane M\u00e9nager, France back row","copy2":"Feleu grew up in Wallis and Futuna, a French-controlled island located between Fiji and Samoa. Whilst living there Manae once played alongside France international Yoram Moefana in an under-11s tournament. They formed the half-back pairing: Manae at nine, Yoram at 10. That year, their team took the title.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7080.png.webp?maxw=444","number":23,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/France.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/910.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877406"]},{"id":"7182","name":"Maud Muir","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/maud-muir\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"24-year-old Muir has proven her strength at tighthead in recent years. In 2024, she was named in the World Rugby Dream Team and has all but nailed down the starting England shirt, not an easy feat given the competition.\n\nThe dynamic and powerful prop appears nicer than nice off the pitch but granted, she will take you down on it.\n\nNamed player of the match in the 2024\/25 PWR final, Muir put in a gargantuan effort to contribute to The Circus\u2019 third consecutive title, as she had done all season. With one World Cup under her belt already, this Red Rose will be one to watch on home turf in her second tournament in the coming weeks.","copy3":"\u201cThe life and soul of any team she\u2019s in, with an infectious energy, she\u2019s an unbelievable person to have around, genuinely loved by everyone, and obviously a weapon on the field as well.\u201d\n\n- Natasha \u2018Mo\u2019 Hunt, England scrum-half","copy2":"Maud is keen pottery maker, a big fan of board games and enjoys watching the BBC\u2019s Antiques Road Show","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7182.png.webp?maxw=444","number":24,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7135","name":"Stacey Waaka","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/stacey-waaka\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"Stacey Waaka was playfully labelled \u201cThe Smiling Assassin\u201d during her legendary career on the HSBC SVNS circuit.\n\nWaaka has a prestigious trophy collection in the shortened format of the game winning multiple world titles and two Olympic gold medals in Tokyo and Paris\u2013 all whilst wearing the biggest smile.\n\nIn 15s, Waaka is a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, scoring a try in their famous triumph over England in 2022 and setting up another scintillating score in that match which effectively ended England\u2019s hopes of the crown.\n\nHer running style, pace and ability to read the game make her a threat with ball in hand from anywhere on the field.","copy3":"\u201cStacey Waaka is the personification of the smiling assassin. She is ruthless in her attack\n\nand defence, with speed, skill and ferocity - and has seamlessly transferred between sevens\n\nand 15s becoming one of the key players at her home Rugby World Cup. All done with her\n\ntrademark smile and joyous celebrations. A real fan favourite.\u201d\n\n- Rob Vickerman, former England sevens player","copy2":"Waaka was born in New Zealand but spent the first eight years of her life living in Australia. Her parents kept moving between Auckland and Melbourne until one day they decided to remain in New Zealand, otherwise we might have been accustomed to seeing Waaka in a green and gold jersey, rather than a black one!","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7135.png.webp?maxw=444","number":25,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7122","name":"Ashley Marsters","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/ashley-marsters\/","country":"Australia","team":"159","copy1":"Ashley Marsters has played more Tests in Wallaroos\u2019 gold than anyone else, with the backrower breaking the all-time appearance record during WXV 2 last October.\n\nMarsters played a key role in the Wallaroos\u2019 run to the title in that tournament \u2013 the first major trophy in the team\u2019s history.\n\nThe 31-year-old is a pioneer of women\u2019s rugby in Australia, and will be heading to her third Rugby World Cup in England. Marsters has hit the ground running ahead of the showpiece event, featuring in all five Tests to start the year, which included impressive tries against New Zealand and the USA during the Pacific Four Series.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s one of the most dynamic ball carriers in world rugby at the moment. She\u2019s very versatile with her skillset and plays multiple positions. What she brings is a huge amount of experience.\n\n- Dylan Parsons, Western Force coach","copy2":"Marsters was born in the Cook Islands before moving to Australia as a four-year-old. Holding onto the Cook Islands culture is incredibly important to Marsters. In adult life, Marsters attended Cook Islands language classes along with her brother.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7122.png.webp?maxw=444","number":26,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Australia.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1016.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877242"]},{"id":"7174","name":"Zoe Harrison","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/zoe-harrison\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"Harrison\u2019s international career was stalled by a serious knee injury at the beginning of 2023 but has put her best foot forward to reclaim England\u2019s starting ten shirt ahead of the World Cup.\n\nHarrison\u2019s kicking game is one of the best in the business, often pinning opponents back in their 22s and her pinpoint crossfield kicks produce ample try scoring opportunities. This was demonstrated when the fly-half led the stats with seven try assists in this year\u2019s Six Nations.\n\nAdd in her distribution, running ability and game management, she\u2019s one of the most dangerous tens in the game.","copy3":"\u201cZoe is a world class rugby player. Her vision and skillset allow other players to shine. She has the ability to run, pass and kick, and you can rely on her in high pressure games\u201d\n\n- Rosie Galligan, England lock","copy2":"Zoe made her England debut against Canada in 2017 alongside best friend Jess Breach, as well as other England stalwarts Ellie Kildunne and Hannah Botterman. All agreed to have the date tattooed on their bodies to mark the occasion, but only Breach actually did it.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7174.png.webp?maxw=444","number":27,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7214","name":"Daleaka Menin","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/daleaka-menin\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"This year\u2019s Pacific Four Series saw Menin became only the third Canadian woman to reach 60 caps for her country. Her super strength is in the set piece, however, when she carries it\n\ntakes two or three defenders to bring her down, and she\u2019s not afraid of a well-timed offload or a quick pick and go to catch opposition players off guard.\n\nGoing into her fourth season in the PWR for Exeter Chiefs, Menin\u2019s rugby career has made huge strides since moving to England, which has been reflected in her stand out performances on the world stage for Canada.","copy3":"\u201cDaLeaka has been the cornerstone of our pack for the last three years. Her front-row partnership with Emily Tuttosi and Hope Rogers has been the platform for so many of our best performances. However, DaLeaka in the loose in also a terrifying prospect.\u201d\n\n- Steve Salvin, Interim Exeter Chiefs head coach","copy2":"Menin comes from Alberta and enjoys spending time outdoors in nature and hiking in the mountains. Last summer Scotland winger Rhona Lloyd joined her and Emily Tuttosi exploring the province.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7214.png.webp?maxw=444","number":28,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"7218","name":"Karen Paquin","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/karen-paquin\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"Despite taking a two-year break from international rugby Karen Paquin has shown no sign of slowing down. Over the course of her career, the 37-year-old Quebecois has been a Rugby World Cup runner-up, an Olympic bronze medallist and aims to represent her country at a fourth World Cup this year. \n\nThe flanker is renowned for her effervescent ability to consistently make hard carries to challenge opposition defenders and shows irrepressible joy in defence whilst playing.\n\nInspired to return to international rugby after watching Canada\u2019s charge to second in the World Rugby rankings, you can be sure that Paquin will be doing everything possible to bring the Rugby World Cup home this summer.","copy3":"\u201cKaren was my first rugby idol. I\u2019ve always loved watching her play. She still brings that same savage strength to everything she does. She\u2019s inspired me to stay unapologetically myself, to own my convictions, and she\u2019s a constant reminder that heart and soul don\u2019t age.\u201d\n\n- Laetitia Royer, Canada lock","copy2":"Paquin is a full-time rugby coach at Notre-Dame-de-Foy, her local university in Quebec City. It is there that she moulds the next generation of rugby players in Canada, while also undertaking her own personal training routine to compete at the top level","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7218.png.webp?maxw=444","number":29,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"6891","name":"Alana Borland","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/alana-bremner\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"The South Islander was an ever-present during the Black Ferns World Cup winning campaign on home soil in 2022, and hasn\u2019t slowed down since. The forward can switch seamlessly between flanker and lock, such is her understanding of the game and has grown in a leadership capacity, recently being handed the co-captaincy role alongside incumbent Ruahei Demant.\n\nShe made her international debut in the Black Ferns\u2019 historic 100th test match against England in 2021, scoring her first Test try in the same match. The 28-year-old is best known for her tackling and expertise at the lineout.\n\nRecently signed for Trailfinders Women in the PWR, Borland has shown her aspirations to continue to improve outside her comfort zone in one of the best leagues in the world.","copy3":"\u201cAlana is a world-class player. Her experience at the highest level, both domestically and internationally, her leadership, physicality, and lineout expertise will add depth to our pack and will be invaluable to our squad.\u201d\n\n- Barney Maddison, Head Coach Trailfinders Women","copy2":"Borland is sisters with Black Fern Chelsea Bremner. The pair are each other\u2019s right-hand woman. This was demonstrated when Chelsea recently officiated Alana\u2019s wedding\u2013 an occasion that was kept as a surprise from guests who thought they were attending an engagement party. One of the only other Black Ferns in the know was close friend Amy du Plessis.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6891.png.webp?maxw=444","number":30,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7186","name":"Holly Aitchison","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/holly-aitchison\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"Aitchison was named as the best fly-half in the women\u2019s game last year, making her way into the 2024 Dream Team after an impressive season pulling the strings for the Red Roses. With high competition for the England starting shirts, three players wore the number 10 jersey across their 2025 Women\u2019s Six Nations campaign, but Aitchison shone against Scotland with her impressive passing game and improved kicking.\n\nA dynamic attacking triple threat, with sublime distribution on the move, Aitchison keeps defences guessing.\n\nThe 27-year-old has moved to Sale Sharks ahead of the 2025\/26 PWR season, where she will be a key protagonist in their revival hopes.","copy3":"\u201cAitchison is one of the world\u2019s best running tens, she is extremely balanced and almost glides through gaps. I enjoy how flat she plays to the line and has a great feel for the crossfield kick.\u201d\n\n-Katy Daley-Mclean, former England fly-half and World Cup winning captain","copy2":"1994 World Cup winner Gill Burns was Holly\u2019s rugby coach at school, where she was also teammates with Sarah Beckett - the two would go on to play for England together","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7186.png.webp?maxw=444","number":31,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"9295","name":"Natasha Hunt","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/natasha-hunt\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"A popular player for both club and country, Hunt is one of four remaining players from England\u2019s 2014 Rugby World Cup-winning team. Hunt was the heartbeat of the Gloucester-Hartpury side who claimed their third PWR title in a row in March.\n\nAlways one to put the team and her team mates first, the 36-year-old, who started both World Cup finals for England in 2014 and 2017, is known for her intuitive style of play and lethal snipes across the try line.","copy3":"\u201cMo is not only a precision passer but a run-kick-pass triple threat. The reason she is top of the global game though is her decision making, especially in attack. Mo\u2019s pass selection is phenomenal and is the reason defence coaches lie awake at night.\u201d\n\n- Nick Heath, Rugby Broadcaster and Commentator","copy2":"Mo now counts Spice Girl Mel C among her friends having recently been shown how to perfect the \u2018kick and peace sign\u2019 try celebration by Sporty herself. She is also an ambassador for Age UK","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/9295.png.webp?maxw=444","number":32,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"7181","name":"Hannah Botterman","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/hannah-botterman\/","country":"England","team":"113","copy1":"Not just a powerful prop and solid in set piece, Botterman has built a name for herself on the pitch as the turn over Queen. Seemingly able to produce crucial turnovers on her defensive five metre line at will, the 26-year-old\u2019s impact on the pitch cannot be ignored and will have opposition game plans singling her out.\n\nBotterman brings a huge physical presence to the England front row, whilst always providing a safe pair of hands especially near the try line.","copy3":"\u201cOnce you have a name for yourself for being a jackling player, people defend you more and for her to still be able to do it so effectively, this could be really significant in decisive World Cup moments.\u201d\n\n- Kat Merchant, former England winger and 2014 World Cup winner","copy2":"Hannah comes from good rugby stock with her auntie, Jane Everett, also an England international prop as was her uncle, Gregg Botterman, who played for England and over 100 times for Saracens","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7181.png.webp?maxw=444","number":33,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/England.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/908.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875284"]},{"id":"6695","name":"Aura Muzzo","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/aura-muzzo\/","country":"Italy","team":"111","copy1":"The sheer speed and adrenaline Aura Muzzo injects into any game she plays has cemented her as one of Italy\u2019s most dangerous attackers. The 28-year-old was named in the 2025 Women's Six Nations Team of the Championship and is crucial to Italy\u2019s \u2018run it from anywhere\u2019 mentality.\n\nShe has a knack for scoring seemingly impossible tries using her pace, low centre of gravity and strength in contact.","copy3":"\u201cMuzzo blends sprinter speed, gymnastics-honed balance and fearless ambition on the wing. She spots space seconds earlier, accelerates through half-gaps, then finishes with ruthless precision.\u201d \n\n- Valerio Amodeo, Italian sports journalist","copy2":"Muzzo completed a Masters degree in Strength and Conditioning from Universit\u00e0 degli Studi di Udine and previously devoted 14 years of her life as an artistic gymnast","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6695.png.webp?maxw=444","number":34,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Italy.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/907.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877786"]},{"id":"6913","name":"Maiakawanakaulani Roos","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/maiakawanakaulani-roos\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"Opponents are warned to not be fooled by her fresh, baby face- Maia Roos is a ruthless competitor.\n\nThe lock has become a household name in New Zealand since bursting onto the scene in 2021. The Blues co-captain has helped lead her side to back-to-back Super Rugby Aupiki titles -securing the double this year in a competition first.\n\nHer domestic achievements complement a 2021 Rugby World Cup winner\u2019s medal, an accolade she won after starting that famous final against England at her home ground, Eden Park.\n\nNow with a handful of years of consistent international rugby under her belt, there is plenty more to come from this deceptive second row.","copy3":"\u201cSeemingly a New Zealand captain in waiting, it's hard to believe she's still only 24. A regular 80 minute player for both club and country, there's a steely underbelly to Roos which belies the pure joy she shows in playing the game.\u201d\n\n- Rikki Swannell, Rugby Commentator and Journalist","copy2":"In 2023, Maia became the youngest Black Ferns captain in history when she was given the captain\u2019s armband for their match against the USA at just 21 years of age","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6913.png.webp?maxw=444","number":35,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"6887","name":"Georgia Ponsonby","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/georgia-ponsonby\/","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","copy1":"Georgia Ponsonby is a dynamic front-rower with more than 30 Black Ferns caps to her name. It wouldn\u2019t come as a surprise to anyone who has seen her play that she started coming through the ranks as a loose forward.\n\nA key member of a Canterbury side that lost just one game during three successive title runs from 2018-2020 in the Farah Palmer Cup, Ponsonby credits her rugged, determined style of play to her upbringing on her parents\u2019 farm.\n\nA rugby scholarship brought the powerhouse hooker\u2019s talent to Christchurch after an impressive 2017 campaign with the Manawatu Cyclones. It wasn\u2019t until 2020 that she was moved from number eight to number two and just one year later, she made her first Black Ferns appearance.","copy3":"\u201cWhen any Black Ferns player makes a line-break, have a close look at who's following in support and chances are you'll see Georgia Ponsonby. Ponsonby is possessed with a big engine and a turn of speed that makes her a threat in the loose and with ball in hand. A solid scrummager and accurate thrower, Ponsonby is an understated linchpin in the New Zealand pack.\u201d\n\n- Rikki Swannell, Rugby commentator and Journalist","copy2":"A product of Feilding High School, Ponsonby joins Black Ferns Sevens legend Sarah Hirini, England\u2019s Amy Cokayne, and All Blacks Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith and Codie Taylor as international stars to come from the rural school two hours north of Wellington","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6887.png.webp?maxw=444","number":36,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7657","name":"Evie Gallagher","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/evie-gallagher\/","country":"Scotland","team":"116","copy1":"Shortlisted for the 2025 Women's Six Nations Player of the Championship award, the 24-year-old is the full package when it comes to defence. She topped the Six Nations stats for defensive ruck hits (38) and turnovers made (10), but has also honed her skillset the other side of the ball. Her strong carries and offloads propel Scotland onto the front foot whoever their opposition.","copy3":"\u201cThe sky is the limit for her, I really mean that. Her attitude is excellent, and the way she trains and the way she plays shows that.\u201d\n\n- Dave Ward, former Bristol Bears coach","copy2":"Gallagher has multiples tattoos- one of which consists of meaningful Gaelic words, (a language which she is learning), another which was designed by team mate Elis Martin, and her \u2018most special\u2019 one is her late Dad\u2019s birthday written in Roman numerals","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7657.png.webp?maxw=444","number":37,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Scotland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1046.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725878606"]},{"id":"7312","name":"Alysha Corrigan","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/alysha-corrigan\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"In the year after helping Canada win an Olympic silver medal at the Paris Games, Alysha Corrigan has settled seamlessly back into the 15-a-side game.\n\nWhether it is on the wing or at centre she is sure to make an impact with her attacking verve or astute defence.\n\nThose abilities made the 28-year-old an instant starter for Saracens upon her return to north London in 2024 after a year away, and helped the team all the way to a runners-up finish in the PWR.\n\nAlmost instantly back in K\u00e9vin Rouet\u2019s 15-a-side Canada squad too, Corrigan was box office across the Pacific Four Series and will be much-relied upon at this year\u2019s World Cup.","copy3":"\u201cAlysha has grown and developed into a well-respected player. Her incredible appetite and desire to work hard creates opportunities for her talent to shine. I have no doubt there will be many more breathtaking moments in the future and that she will continue to be a flag bearer of standards.\u201d\n\n- Alex Austerberry, Saracens Women\u2019s head coach","copy2":"Corrigan admitted one of the main reasons she came over to play her rugby in England in the PWR was to be able to test herself against opposite number and rugby hero Emily Scarratt","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7312.png.webp?maxw=444","number":38,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"7271","name":"Rachel Malcolm","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/rachel-malcolm\/","country":"Scotland","team":"116","copy1":"Being captain of any international side does not come without its challenges as Malcolm has experienced first-hand when Scotland lost 12 games in a row between 2022 and 2023.\n\nThese trials and tribulations have arguably developed her into a player and leader of incredible substance. And however difficult the time, Malcolm\u2019s resilience and level headedness as a leader has shone through, whilst maintaining her on-field performances.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s a smart leader. When Rachel speaks you can tell the players listen. She has an empathetic leadership style and cares about her people. As a captain you don\u2019t want to lead from the front and then leave your players behind- she leads and brings her players with her.\u201d\n\n- Maggie Alphonsi, former England flanker and 2014 World Cup winner","copy2":"Malcolm has also excelled in academic circles having achieved a PhD in environmental physiology at Nottingham Trent University","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7271.png.webp?maxw=444","number":39,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Scotland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1046.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725878606"]},{"id":"7233","name":"Justine Pelletier","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/justine-pelletier\/","country":"Canada","team":"161","copy1":"In the oval ball game, wherever Justine Pelletier has gone, success has generally followed.\n\nIn her almost eight-year international career, the 29-year-old scrum-half has been a heavily relied on resource by Canada head coach K\u00e9vin Rouet.\n\nPelletier has been the key cog to Canada maintaining the pace and tempo of their game plan which has helped the side rise to second overall in the World Rugby rankings. An eye for a gap, the scrum-half will back her speed and agility when given half a chance","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s an energiser. She has endless amounts of energy. I don\u2019t know where it comes from. She\u2019s just like go, go, go, go. Constantly. You can see that in the way she plays. You ask yourself, how is she always there? And making such smart, accurate, exciting and creative decisions? She\u2019s so much fun.\u201d\n\n- Tyson Beukeboom, Canada second row","copy2":"In 2018 Pelletier tried her hand at rugby league and went on to represent Canada Ravens at the Commonwealth 9s Championship in Australia in 2018. That Ravens team also contained Canada rugby union players Andrea Burk and Gillian Boag","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7233.png.webp?maxw=444","number":40,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Canada.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1017.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877381"]},{"id":"7303","name":"Maya Stewart","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/maya-stewart\/","country":"Australia","team":"159","copy1":"Maya Stewart is the most prolific try-scorer in Wallaroos history, breaking that record during a series of standout performances in 2024. Stewart was named the Wallaroos Player of the Year after scoring in seven consecutive appearances, including a try against Scotland that helped Australia take the WXV 2 title.\n\nAt club level, Stewart starred for the NSW Waratahs during their run to a record sixth women\u2019s title. While the winger picked up an unfortunate knee injury during the build-up to this year\u2019s World Cup, head coach Jo Yapp remains confident Stewart will be available to play at the showpiece event.","copy3":"\"Maya Stewart, what she did on the weekend was amazing. The pace, sidestep, power, (this Wallaroos team) has got everything\u201d\n\n- Siya Kolisi, Springboks men\u2019s captain","copy2":"Stewart couldn\u2019t believe it when global music star SZA, with more than 23 million followers on Instagram, shared a highlight reel of the Wallaroos winger. The RugbyPass clip shows Stewart racing away to score a stunning try against Wales in WXV 2","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7303.png.webp?maxw=444","number":41,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Australia.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1016.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877242"]},{"id":"6694","name":"Vittoria Ostuni Minuzzi","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/vittoria-ostuni-minuzzi\/","country":"Italy","team":"111","copy1":"The Italian speedster has starred for the Azzurre since she was 19, scoring two tries in her first Rugby World Cup in 2021 (played in 2022), and has been a standout presence ever since.\n\nOstuni Minuzzi\u2019s vibrant energy pumps life into her backline and despite being only 23, the dynamic full back has deeply impacted Italy\u2019s performances in recent years. She is also great as a defensive unit due to her tenacity, never-give-up spirit, and excellent tactical positioning. Give her the opportunity to counter-attack, especially in broken field, and she will likely punish you.","copy3":"\u201cVittoria embodies unpredictability in rugby. As an attacking option, she is sharp, and you never know, until the last moment, where or how she will strike. Because of it, she can be a thorn in the opposing team\u2019s plans. A modern, fast and complete player.\u201d \n\n- Davide Macor, Community coordinator of \u2018Delinquenti Prestati al Mondo della Palla Ovale\u2019","copy2":"Although Ostuni Minuzzi started playing rugby at a young age, a serious injury aged 10\n\nforced her to switch to athletics for four years becoming talented at the long jump and long-distance running","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/6694.png.webp?maxw=444","number":42,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Italy.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/907.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877786"]},{"id":"7249","name":"Alev Kelter","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/alev-kelter\/","country":"United States of America","team":"160","copy1":"A three-time Olympian who has represented her country at two 15s Rugby World Cups to date, Alev Kelter is a consistently high performer across both codes of the game. The top USA points scorer as part of the Paris 2024 bronze medal-winning team, which included team mate Ilona Maher, Kelter moved back to 15s in time to play at WXV 1, where she was a standout performer and beat a tournament-high 20 defenders.\n\nThe first American woman to win an English Premiership title (with Saracens), the centre was named in the 2024\/25 PWR team of the season whilst playing her trade further north for Loughborough Lightning. Her sustained performance at the highest level across sevens and 15s makes her one of the world\u2019s best.","copy3":"\u201cShe is an extremely good ball carrier, a very powerful player but most of all she knows how to win and I want that sort of mindset in the Loughborough environment.\u201d\n\n- Nathan Smith, Loughborough Lightning Head Coach","copy2":"A former ice hockey player, Kelter captained the USA at the 2009 IIHF World Women's U18 Championship, and played NCAA D1 hockey and soccer. She\u2019s also a twin!","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7249.png.webp?maxw=444","number":43,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/United-States-of-America.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1014.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877570"]},{"id":"16435","name":"Erin King","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/erin-king\/","country":"Ireland","team":"115","copy1":"King announced herself on the 15s stage at WXV 1 in 2024. In her fifth game of senior 15s and in only her second cap, King scored a brace against New Zealand, the second of which levelled the scores to allow the winning conversion for Ireland. Such was her impact, she was named Breakthrough Player of the Year just 10 weeks after her first cap.\n\nKing\u2019s meteoric rise to 15s stardom is unsurprising, with over 100 SVNS appearances and having played at the Paris 2024 Olympics, many will recognise the forward after going viral for an impressive display of strength at a kick-off lift.\n\nShe will miss this year\u2019s Rugby World Cup due to injury, but as one of the game\u2019s top performers when fit, keep an eye out for her as her burgeoning career progresses.","copy3":"\u201cShe\u2019s a phenomenal athlete. Her energy, her commitment, her ability to deliver in the big moments- it\u2019s everything you want in a player\u201d\n\n- Scott Bemand, Ireland Women\u2019s Head Coach","copy2":"Born in Sydney to English parents, she was taken to Rugby World Cup 2003 games as a one-month-old. She could have played for England or Australia, but fell in love with Ireland, qualifying through her grandmother.","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/16435.png.webp?maxw=444","number":44,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Ireland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/911.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877515"]},{"id":"7241","name":"Rachel Johnson","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/rachel-johnson\/","country":"United States of America","team":"160","copy1":"When the whistle blows this USA Eagle is a force to be reckoned with. An abrasive carrier, Johnson is a well-established member of the squad and their leadership team. Her combined contributions for ruck hits, carries, and tackles were more than any player at 2024\u2019s WXV 1 competition, which is a true display of her ferocious work rate and unwavering commitment.\n\nShe made an immediate impact upon joining England\u2019s PWR as part of the first ever Exeter Chiefs Women\u2019s squad, scoring on debut and eventually earning the role of vice-captain, with 64 appearances and 25 tries to her name.","copy3":"\u201cShe is the sweetest person off the field but terrifying on it\u2026exactly what you want from a Number 8!\u201d\n\n- Susie Appleby, Former Exeter Chiefs Women\u2019s Head Coach","copy2":"She has a Bachelor's Degree in Community Health from Portland State University, and only picked up rugby as a 19-year-old for extra physical education credit","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7241.png.webp?maxw=444","number":45,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/United-States-of-America.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1014.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877570"]},{"id":"7289","name":"Sylvia Brunt","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/sylvia-brunt\/","copy1":"It beggars belief that Sylvia Brunt is just 21 years old heading into her second Rugby World Cup campaign. The midfield game-breaker has been a star for the Black Ferns since the age of 18, and has looked right at home throughout.\n\nAfter a World Rugby Dream Team selection in 2024, Brunt has won another Super Rugby Aupiki title in 2025 and then scored the Black Ferns\u2019 83rd-minute try to level the score against Canada in the Pacific Four Series.\n\nBrunt\u2019s character is well represented by the story of her first Test try: It came in a 2022 clash with the USA, a game in which Brunt fractured her foot in the first minute, and played through the pain to claim the first of many five-pointers in a black jersey.","copy3":"\u201cShe's very intelligent. She picks things up really quickly when you coach her, but on top of that, she's also very natural. She does things that are difficult to coach with some people.\u201d\n\n- Wesley Clarke, Former Black Ferns assistant coach","copy2":"At just 14 years of age, Brunt would join her local club training sessions. Those trainings were also attended by Black Fern Charmaine McMenamin, who noted, \u201cWe didn\u2019t go easy on her back then because she was one of those kids that could handle it.\u201d","country":"New Zealand","team":"158","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7289.png.webp?maxw=444","number":46,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/New-Zealand.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/965.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725875775"]},{"id":"7267","name":"Lana Skeldon","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/lana-skeldon\/","country":"Scotland","team":"116","copy1":"Skeldon is the top try-scoring hooker of all time for any Scotland side and is the most-capped hooker in Scotland women\u2019s history, as well as being in their top 10 cap holders.\n\nA reliable figure in the set piece, the 31-year-old can often be found muscling her way over the try line off the back of a rolling maul or well-worked lineout.\n\nShe\u2019s appeared in an impressive 10 Six Nations campaigns and has become a strong leader in the Scottish pack as one of the squad\u2019s senior players.\n\nSkeldon has a mixed bag of tricks and is one of the few forwards in the game who can goal kick, and has previously taken on this responsibility for Scotland.","copy3":"\u201cLana is a tremendous servant to this group. She's an infectious character on and off the field. She's somebody the youngsters look up to and one we can trust week in, week out.\u201d\n\n- Bryan Easson, Scotland Women\u2019s head coach","copy2":"Away from rugby, she enjoys cooking and baking, and more recently can be found at the driving range or out in nature taking photographs as her escape from the pressures of international duty","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/7267.png.webp?maxw=444","number":47,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Scotland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1046.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725878606"]},{"id":"12600","name":"Rose Bernadou","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/rose-bernadou-1\/","country":"France","team":"114","copy1":"Part of the France squad who made the 2021 World Cup semi-finals, Rose \u201cRosie\u201d Bernadou\n\ncould have taken a completely different path. Her parents first signed her up for judo\u2014her father used to say: \u201crugby isn\u2019t a sport for girls\u201d, but didn\u2019t she prove him wrong!\n\nAnchoring Les Bleues scrum, the tighthead provide stability and power in the scrum, but is also highly active in open play, whether that be clearing out at the ruck, tackling players off their feet, or linking up the play with sharp, accurate passes.","copy3":"\u201cHer power in the scrum is simply unmatched in the global game. Putting it herself, Rose says she loves doing the dirty work, \u2018rucks, scrums, everything in the shadows\u2019\u201d \n\n- Marc Duzan, journalist for Midi Olympique","copy2":"One unique feature? You might spot her wearing a black face mask - worn to protect her nose. Injuries during the 2023\/24 season kept her from adding to her 21 caps","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/12600.png.webp?maxw=444","number":48,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/France.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/910.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877406"]},{"id":"13251","name":"Aoife Dalton","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/aoife-dalton\/","country":"Ireland","team":"115","copy1":"Named in the 2025 Women's Six Nations Team of the Championship, quietly spoken Dalton packs a big punch on the field despite her small stature.\n\nTaking down opposition bigger and heavier, the centre never shies away from contact and despite being only 22, does a lot of organising on the pitch defensively.\n\nShe\u2019ll suddenly po\u00dfp up with ball in hand as a threat in attack as well as being a work horse in defence. Miss consistent, she does the unseen work, and rarely misses a tackle.","copy2":"Hailing from Clara, County Offaly, Dalton initially made her mark in Gaelic football before switching to rugby at age 15, playing for Tullamore RFC","copy3":"\u201cAoife Dalton is the glue to our defence, she is hard working, hard hitting and a defensive guru! The little pocket rocket explodes through opposition lines with utter power and flare.\n\n- Neve Jones, Ireland team mate","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/13251.png.webp?maxw=444","number":49,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Ireland.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/911.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877515"]},{"id":"13814","name":"Desiree Miller","show":"false","link":"https:\/\/www.rugbypass.com\/players\/desiree-miller\/","country":"Australia","team":"159","copy1":"Desiree Miller was named the Super Rugby Women\u2019s Player of the Final back in April. Miller scored an unbelievable solo effort for the Waratahs in the Grand Final, but it\u2019s not like the winger\u2019s ability to score incredible tries is anything new.\n\nIn 2024, the 23-year-old made headlines, scoring four tries in a dominant win over Fijiana at Sydney\u2019s Allianz Stadium. At just five foot three inches tall, Miller is often the shortest player on the field, but also one of the most dangerous and lethal threats with the ball.","copy3":"\u201c\u2018Des\u2019 is an extremely professional athlete\u2026 she\u2019s just so professional in her attitude and constantly wanting to learn.\n\n- Jo Yapp, Wallaroos Head Coach","copy2":"Miller is a former gymnast who started playing rugby union at 19 during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a gymnast, Miller was a young state representative on the beam, bars, vault and floor","image":"https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/players\/head\/13814.png.webp?maxw=444","number":50,"hasCopy1":true,"hasCopy2":true,"hasCopy3":true,"icons":["https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/flags\/Australia.png.webp","https:\/\/eu-cdn.rugbypass.com\/webp-images\/images\/team-images\/logos\/png\/1016.png.webp?maxw=60&v=1725877242"]}]
Comments
Any list that has Ellie and Sarah Betn out of the top 10 is just ludicrous. Drawn up by kiwi journalists at a guess.
Any list like this will be controversial. I’m Canadian and I’m shocked that Alex Matthews is so low. She’s a top 5 for me.
Top ten (I’m guessing), in no particular order: R Demant, K Olson-Baker, Z Aldcroft, M Jones, H Rogers, S de Goede, A Tessier, P Bourdon-Sansus, A. Wafer, A du Plessis.
I’m surely forgetting someone great.
England always get hard done by in these lists. won 55 of last 56 tests and 1 or 2 players in a top 10. If stacey waaka can get picked in list then expect to see portia woodman picked. Wafers good and may be great but shes not yet done enough to be a top 10 player. Personally I dont rate demant that much-far better nz players. De goede has hardly played for 18 months-so you basing it on old form(shes my number 1 when fully fit closely followed by aldcroft at 2). amy du plessis wont be there as shes not even first choice for NZ with brunt/waaka in centres. Tessier not been as good in 2025 as she was in 2024.
Cant say I agree with much of this list-just seems a random list of names in no particular order. As usual the womens rugby media always tries to be too inclusive and ends up making lists like these a pointless exercise.
Seriously? This list is comprised of players from about six countries. I doubt anyone from Spain or Wales makes it (Pena and Callendar could easily), let alone Japan or South Africa.
Yes, I don’t agree with much of it so far. Is this a 7s list or one for real XVs rugby?
Yeah, putting Evie G at #37 after being shortlisted as the player of the tournament at the W6N this year makes this list questionable. Who even is going to be in the top 10?
If Stacey can make it to the top 3 with just three 15s matches this year (one of them is a trial match), then Jorja Miller being in the top 10 is not impossible at all.
I doubt Miller gets in. I also expect that would change if this list was done post-RWC.
I better see Kaipo Olsen-Baker in the top 10
Well, at least 15 of the next 30 will have to be Red Roses, but then only one Frenchwomen has been named so far and only 2 Canadians. Have a feeling that this list is going to be controversial.
Women of colour, where you at?
In the top 40! Just check out the Irish side. They have a prolific prop from Cameroon 🇨🇲 🏉 🇮🇪
Surprised to see Kelter as low as 43, she is star quality. I can only imagine how the rest of the list will shape up, such ranking is always a challenge.
Can’t wait for this one, lets go ELLIE K
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