It's always fascinating to hear what players themselves consider the pinnacle of the sport, and when Ben Earl weighs in, you can't help but pay attention. He's been in the thick of it, experiencing the highs and lows of international rugby firsthand. What struck me immediately about his recent comments on the 'Hits Different' podcast was his nuanced approach to picking the 'world's best.' Instead of a single, sweeping declaration, he wisely dissected it into forwards and backs, a move that, in my opinion, shows a deeper understanding of the game's complexities.
The Unseen Talent and a Gaping Hole
Earl’s choice of Tom Willis as the world's best forward, while perhaps tinged with a bit of English pride, speaks volumes about what Steve Borthwick's England is missing. Personally, I think it's a tragedy that a player of Willis's caliber is unavailable for England due to his move abroad. Earl's description of Willis's game – "you kick him the ball at kick-off and all of a sudden there’s a ruck 55 metres up the pitch" – paints a picture of a player who operates on a different plane. This isn't just about raw power; it's about spatial awareness and a disruptive presence that few can match. What many people don't realize is that this kind of unpredictable brilliance can be a coach's dream, or nightmare, depending on which side you're on. The fact that Earl, currently England's number eight, would readily pick Willis ahead of himself at the base of the scrum is a powerful endorsement and a stark reminder of the talent drain.
Backs Brilliance and a Familiar Name
When it comes to the backs, Earl's consideration of Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu alongside the ever-present Jordie Barrett is insightful. Barrett, of course, is a name that resonates globally, and Earl's observation that he "don’t think I’ve ever seen him have a bad game" is spot on. The impact of his absence on the All Blacks was palpable, underscoring his immense value. From my perspective, this highlights a crucial aspect of modern rugby: the influence of a few key individuals who can elevate an entire team. It’s not just about individual skill, but about leadership and consistency under pressure. The fact that Earl is even considering Feinberg-Mngomezulu, whom he hasn't directly played against, shows the growing reputation of emerging talents.
The 'Standard-Bearer' and the 'Freakish' Talent
Now, let's talk about Pieter-Steph du Toit. Earl rightly labels him the "standard-bearer" for back-rowers, and I couldn't agree more. What makes Du Toit so captivating is his sheer ubiquity on the field. Earl’s recollection of him charging down a kick, then making a tackle, then a carry, is a perfect snapshot of his game. In my opinion, he embodies what a modern blindside flanker should be – relentless, versatile, and utterly dominant. While Earl’s personal bias might lead him to pick Sam Underhill for England at seven (and who can blame him, given Underhill’s impact?), the sheer respect for Du Toit is undeniable. It’s this kind of all-around excellence that sets players apart, and Du Toit has consistently demonstrated it. What’s particularly interesting is how players like Du Toit redefine what’s possible, pushing the boundaries of physical and tactical engagement in the game.
Beyond the Individual: What It All Means
Ultimately, these discussions are more than just pub talk among players. They reveal the underlying currents in the sport. The acknowledgment of players like Willis moving abroad highlights the economic realities and the challenges for national teams in retaining their best talent. It raises a deeper question about the future of domestic leagues versus international careers. Furthermore, the focus on players who are "everywhere" and have "no weakness" points to an evolving ideal of the complete rugby player. In my view, this constant striving for perfection, driven by players like Du Toit, is what keeps the game so dynamic and exciting. It’s a testament to the dedication and skill that define the very best in rugby, and it makes me wonder who will be the next to set the new benchmark.
