5 Best Rugby Teams In The World 2024

The rankings for the world’s greatest rugby teams are always changing based on outcomes.

Between 2009 and 2019, New Zealand topped the official rankings for the longest period—nine years, nine months, and three days.

Six teams have held the top spot in the world rankings since they were originally released in 2003: South Africa, England, Wales, Ireland, New Zealand, and France.

However, the world rankings don’t necessarily represent the beliefs of supporters, who often debate about the best team.

Let’s have a look at the five best rugby teams in the world

1. Ireland

Ireland may not have made it to the Rugby World Cup semi-finals in 2023, but that disappointment has had no effect on their performance. Under Andy Farrell, they put on one of their greatest performances to date in the 2024 Six Nations.

Ireland’s first game was against France, who suffered heartbreak in the RWC after losing in the quarterfinals. Many predicted that the match in Marseille would be close, but Ireland won in record-breaking fashion, utterly dominating France.

Right now, Ireland needs a very good team to defeat them on their best day. With Farrell agreeing to a new contract to lead the country until the end of the Rugby World Cup in 2027, that may remain the case. The former rugby league and union player will continue as Ireland’s head coach.

2. South Africa

In 2023, South Africa made history by becoming the second side to win consecutive Rugby World Cups after defeating New Zealand in the championship match. The Springboks won the quarterfinal, semifinal, and championship match by a single point.

They have talent all around their squad, led by captain Siya Kolisi, one of the biggest names in sports. Kolisi, who plays for Racing 92, has received praise for his leadership.

The Springbok team will be a force to be reckoned with for a long time. Their first games in 2024 are scheduled as summer friendlies against Portugal, Ireland, and Wales.

3. New Zealand

One of the best rugby teams in history, New Zealand is still at the top of their game. After a decline in performance, the team was all but written off before the 2023 Rugby World Cup, but they surprised everyone by defeating Argentina and Ireland to get to the final.

Even if they lost to South Africa, the team remains one of the most fascinating ones to watch. Versatile back Will Jordan is a standout player. Despite currently recovering from an injury, Jordan tied the record for most tries scored at a single RWC in 2023, crossing the white wash eight times; a feat only Jonah Lomu and Bryan Habana have achieved.

New Zealand is now in a new era with head coach Scott Robertson in charge, and it is almost certain they will remain among the greatest teams.

4. Scotland

In 2023, Scotland was placed in the Pool of Death alongside South Africa and Ireland in the Rugby World Cup. The team was unable to complete the challenging task of exiting the pool, but they have made progress. Scotland has not had the best results in the 2024 Six Nations, but they are a team capable of winning games.

They have players who provide amazing moments in addition to producing results. Top of Scotland’s list of stars are Finn Russell and Duhan van der Merwe. Van der Merwe is a terrific player, especially when representing England, and Russell is an incredible co-captain who ties the whole Scottish team together with his abilities.

5. France

With Antoine Dupont at the core of their danger, France has proven to be a formidable opponent. However, the team appears to be suffering from a mild hangover after losing to South Africa in the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarterfinal. Dupont has switched to 7s in an attempt to win an Olympic medal, so he is temporarily no longer their lucky charm.

Although France still has star talent, the team’s chemistry appears to have soured, as evidenced by their poor performances in the 2024 Six Nations, which ended in a 13–13 draw with Italy.

Though they haven’t returned to their peak after the World Cup, the team is still putting up spectacular performances. Winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey’s try against Scotland, in which he kicked the ball through and caught it himself to score, was one of the Six Nations’ most memorable moments.

Also Read: Rugby Star Antoine Dupont: Facts, Achievements, Net Worth