Top 14 – Abraham Papali'i, Jack Willis, Killian Tixeront… The ten best forwards at the start of the season

• Abraham Papali’i (Castres)

The Castres number eight has simply been unstoppable for many weeks. Irregular in his performances last season, the New Zealander raised the bar during this exercise, and it does damage. His performance against Stade Toulouse on the fifth day left a lasting impression. After nine days, he is the player who has made the most runs with the ball in hand (105). We will also note his two tries and his twenty-nine defenders beaten. A monster.

• Killian Tixeront (Clermont)

Called to compensate for the loss of Joshua Brennan, the third row from Clermont is this week on the Marcoussis side with the XV of France to prepare for the match against Japan. A fair reward for a player who has not disappointed for many weeks with ASM. Already the author of four essays, Tixeront has become one of the strong links in Clermont. In defense, he is almost impassable with a success rate of more than 91% in tackling (71 out of 78). In short, a good place in this group of ten.

When you talk about the Bordeaux-Bègles Union, we will always talk to you first about the Girondin rearguards. Perhaps with good reason. But in the Unionist pack, there are also very beautiful things to see. Always at the forefront of the fight but also active with the ball in his hands when necessary, Cyril Cazeaux impresses. The Bordeaux-Béglais second row is one of the three players who played in the nine days of the Top 14 (7 starts). Indispensable in the cage, the French international could be one of the big men of this 2024/2025 vintage.

What a fighter, what a poison… what a player! Just won the Oscar Europethe Toulouse third line is today considered by many as one of the best in his position on the planet. And we understand it. An exceptional scratcher, Willis is a very important element of Ugo Mola's system. His absence was quickly noticed this season, particularly against Bordeaux-Bègles and Castres. The Englishman is not the type to cross the pitch, and that is not what is asked of him. But in terms of warrior, there is nothing better.

• Billy Vunipola (Montpellier)

Some were skeptical when he arrived in Hérault, Billy Vunipola responded on the ground. After a rather timid start, the former Saracens player gradually hit his stride in the Top 14, and since then, it's been very painful. The match against Vannes on the sixth day seems to have been a turning point for the number eight of the MHR. In recent weeks, he has regained all his power but also his effectiveness in the rucks. If he continues like this, Vunipola will be of great service to Montpellier.

Yes, we know, the Toulon pillar is very often sanctioned. Thirteen penalties whistled against him after only nine episodes. However, the former Harlequins player brings a lot to the RCT on the pitch. As for the locker room, only the players have the answer. Fierce in defense with a 71 out of 74, Sinckler stacks up the score sheets and never disappoints. As far as play goes, the pillar gets the job done. We are erasing this indiscipline and it will be exceptional.

Having become a French international this summer in Argentina, the Lyonnais has changed dimensions in a few months. With Lou's jersey on his shoulders, the second or third row continues on their momentum. Always active, he is one of those players who slow down opposing offensives thanks to their work on the ground. A good scratcher, Guillard knows how to destroy his opponents' ball releases when necessary. His start to the season confirms that the Rhone player has become a reference in our championship. And something tells us that he's not going to stop there.

Bayonne is one of the nice surprises this year. The Basques will be able to enjoy their vacation with a smile on their faces since they are currently fourth. Among the men who take this Rowing to the summits, we find Facundo Bosch. The Argentinian hooker has been a reliable player for many seasons after stints at Agen and La Rochelle. This year, he has already taken part in seven matches, for two tests. His six scratched balls still give a little depth to his performances.

• Junior Kpoku (Racing 92)

Cited among the revelations of this 2024/2025 season, Junior Kpoku is much more than just a player who is revealing himself to the general public. The Racingman has already settled into the Ile-de-France starting fifteen, he who can play second or third row. At only 19 years old, he has his future ahead of him. In defense, the U20 world champion is credited with a 57 out of 61. Racing can rely on him to achieve its objectives.

Above all, let's never forget that he was born in 2004. When we see him as a player, we sometimes tend to forget that Marko Gazzotti is only 20 years old. The UBB player enjoys being part of a team that moves the ball. But make no mistake, its main strength still remains its power. Some defenders exploded against him. Despite the fierce competition for his position, the U20 world champion in 2023 is one of Yannick Bru's trusted men. And he gives it back.