We put that question to Oval Insights, whose player ratings rank the world's leading players, blending recent form with long-term excellence. Calculated using every on-field action from the past three years, the ratings also take into account the strength of the teams and competitions in which those performances were delivered.
With Ireland and Argentina getting the tournament back underway this Friday in Dublin, here are the men set to play a crucial role over the coming weeks.
New Zealand: Cam Roigard, 25
The world's top-ranked player according to the numbers, Roigard was recently described by Wallabies legend Will Genia as “a throwback to the greats”. His explosive running threat and growing game management make him one of the most complete scrum-halves in world rugby. If the All Blacks are to win the Nations Championship, Roigard will be the catalyst.
South Africa: Malcolm Marx, 32
Two-time World Cup winner Marx remains the benchmark for modern hookers, combining set-piece excellence with a relentless breakdown presence. His ability to win turnovers and generate momentum through carries makes him indispensable to the Springboks. In tight matches, few forwards have a greater influence.
England: Maro Itoje, 32
England’s captain continues to set the standard in the second row. Dominant at the lineout and a constant nuisance at the breakdown, he provides leadership as well as world-class performances. England's hopes will rest heavily on their skipper's shoulders.
France: Antoine Dupont, 29
He remains France's most influential player – and arguably rugby's greatest game-breaker. His passing, kicking and running game allow him to dictate contests in multiple ways. Opponents may focus on stopping him, but few succeed. Frighteningly, from an opposition perspective, Dupont is facing stiff competition from in-form scrum-half Maxime Lucu.
Ireland: Dan Sheehan, 28
The Leinsterman – the highest try-scoring forward in Six Nations history – looks like one of the few hookers capable of emulating Marx’s influence. Equally effective at the set-piece and in open play, his athleticism gives Ireland another attacking dimension. He is a cornerstone of their pack.
Scotland: Zander Fagerson, 30
The British & Irish Lion provides the platform on which much of Scotland's game is built. One of the world's leading tightheads, his scrummaging and physicality allow Scotland to compete with the strongest packs. His consistency makes him invaluable.
Japan: Warner Dearns, 24
The towering second row has developed into a genuine world-class forward for Japan. He brings lineout quality, defensive presence and surprising mobility around the field. His experience belies his age, and he is central to Eddie Jones’s ambitions for Japan to continue challenging rugby's elite nations.
Australia: Fraser McReight, 27
Queensland Reds captain Fraser McReight has become a pivotal figure of Australia's back row. His speed to the breakdown and ability to win turnovers make him a constant threat, while his work in possession continues to improve. The Wallabies will look to him to set the tone.
Argentina: Julián Montoya, 33
The Pumas captain continues to enjoy a fantastic career that has taken in several historic firsts. Fiercely competitive and tireless around the field, the former English Premiership winner combines strong set-piece work with exceptional commitment. His leadership will be vital if Argentina are to bounce back from losses to Scotland and England in the Southern Series leg back in July.
Fiji: Tevita Ikanivere, 27
Tevita Ikanivere of Honda Heat is one of the main characters in Fiji's steady rise as a consistent force on the global stage. It’s a given that the hooker boasts the dynamism for which Fijian rugby is renowned, but his influence extends well beyond his dynamism.
Wales: Tomos Williams, 31
Saracens’ new scrum-half remains Wales' principal attacking spark. His pace, vision and instinctive support play make him one of the tournament's most dangerous nines. If Wales are to exceed expectations – and many will feel an opening win against Japan is a non-negotiable – Williams will likely be the architect of their best moments.
Italy: Danilo Fischetti, 28
Danilo Fischetti has quietly developed into one of Europe's most dependable loosehead props. His scrummaging provides a vital platform for an increasingly confident Italy side featuring some electric backs. He is undeniably one of their most important forwards, and vying for a starting spot with Emmanuel Iyogun at English champions Northampton Saints has only sharpened his abilities.
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