2025 Rugby Review: Triumphs, Controversies, and the Rise of New Powers
As the curtain falls on 2025, the rugby world is buzzing with stories of dominance, resilience, and unexpected turns. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some teams soared to unprecedented heights, others stumbled in ways that left fans scratching their heads. Who truly deserves the crown of the year’s biggest winner? And which teams are facing a reckoning? Let’s dive in.
Winners
Red Roses: Redefining Dominance in Women’s Rugby
If there’s one team that stole the show in 2025, it’s the Red Roses. Under John Mitchell’s leadership, they didn’t just win—they redefined what it means to dominate. Securing their fourth consecutive Six Nations Grand Slam (their seventh in nine years) and clinching a third World Cup title on home soil, they extended their winning streak to a staggering 33 Tests since 2022. Their triumph at Twickenham wasn’t just a victory; it was a cultural moment, propelling women’s rugby into the mainstream. But here’s the kicker: their success isn’t just about trophies. It’s about inspiring a generation and reshaping the landscape of the game. And this is the part most people miss—their influence is trickling down to the Premier 15s (PWR), elevating the entire sport.
Springboks: A Level Above, But at What Cost?
The Springboks continued their reign in the men’s game, finishing the year with a jaw-dropping 86% win rate (12 wins from 14 Tests). Their blend of tactical brilliance and brute force was on full display, highlighted by historic wins like the 43-10 thrashing of the All Blacks in Wellington and a 73-0 demolition of Wales. But here’s where it gets controversial: are they too dominant? With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, their rivals are left wondering if anyone can stop them. Or is this the dawn of a Springbok dynasty?
British and Irish Lions: Rare Success, But at What Cost?
The Lions’ tour to Australia was a tale of resilience. Despite an early shock loss to Argentina, they bounced back with eight consecutive wins, including two series-clinching victories over the Wallabies. This marked only their 12th series win in history and the first back-to-back series wins against the same opposition in the post-war era. But here’s the question: did they truly dominate, or did they just scrape by? Their final defeat, marred by a lightning delay, left a sour taste. Were they the heroes of the year, or just lucky survivors?
England: The Dark Horse for 2027?
Steve Borthwick’s England emerged as a force to be reckoned with, posting an impressive 92% win rate (11 wins from 12 Tests). Their victories over France, the All Blacks, Argentina, and Australia showcased their versatility and depth. The ‘Pom Squad’ experiment paid dividends, with different fly-half selections adding layers to their attack. But here’s the controversial take: are they truly World Cup contenders, or just a flash in the pan? Their rapid improvement is undeniable, but can they sustain it?
Bordeaux-Begles: Finally, a European Heavyweight
After years of near misses, Bordeaux-Begles claimed their first major trophy in 18 years with the Investec Champions Cup. Their journey included knocking out powerhouses like Toulouse and Munster, culminating in a final victory over Northampton. But here’s the twist: they almost completed a double, only to fall short in the Top 14 final against Toulouse. Are they the new kings of Europe, or just a one-season wonder?
Leinster: Breaking the Curse
The Irish giants finally ended their trophy drought with a United Rugby Championship (URC) title, defeating the Bulls in the final. This win felt like a weight lifted, especially after three consecutive Champions Cup final losses. But here’s the question: is this the start of a new era for Leinster, or just a fleeting moment of glory?
Bath: Ending Decades of Hurt
Bath’s 2025 was nothing short of historic. After 29 years of waiting, they secured a treble, winning the PREM Cup, EPCR Challenge Cup, and the PREM title. Their dominance was undeniable, but here’s the controversial part: can they maintain this level, or will they fade back into the shadows?
Zimbabwe and Hong Kong China: The Rise of the Underdogs
While South Africa grabs the headlines, Zimbabwe and Hong Kong China quietly made history. Zimbabwe qualified for the 2027 World Cup for the first time since 1991, while Hong Kong China secured their maiden World Cup berth. These nations are no longer minnows—they’re rising powers. But here’s the question: can they compete on the global stage, or will they remain underdogs?
Losers
Welsh Rugby: A Year of Uncertainty
2025 was another brutal year for Welsh rugby. Despite ending their losing streak with wins over Japan, they suffered humiliating defeats to England and South Africa. The proposed axing of one of their four regions has thrown the club game into chaos, with star players like Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake departing. But here’s the controversial take: is Welsh rugby in terminal decline, or can they turn it around?
Australia: A Year of What-Ifs
The Wallabies’ 2025 was a rollercoaster. Wins over the Lions and Springboks hinted at a revival, but a disastrous November tour saw them lose all four Tests. With Joe Schmidt’s departure looming, the team lacked consistency. But here’s the question: can new coach Les Kiss steady the ship, or is Australia destined for more turmoil?
Scotland: So Close, Yet So Far
Scotland’s 2025 was a story of missed opportunities. A fourth-place finish in the Six Nations and a lack of progress in their gameplan left fans frustrated. While they pushed the All Blacks close, a stunning comeback by Argentina exposed their flaws. But here’s the controversial take: is Scotland a team of potential, or are they destined to remain also-rans?
Scott Robertson: Under the Microscope
The All Blacks’ head coach faced intense scrutiny in 2025. Despite a 77% win rate, the team missed out on the Rugby Championship title and suffered their heaviest-ever defeat. Reports of player frustrations and coaching resignations added to the pressure. But here’s the question: is Robertson the right man for the job, or is it time for a change?
Ireland: A Year of Transition
After a strong 2024, Ireland stumbled in 2025. A third-place finish in the Six Nations and a mixed November series raised questions about their direction. With key players nearing the end of their careers, 2026 must be the year for fresh blood. But here’s the controversial take: are Ireland past their prime, or can they reinvent themselves?
Final Thoughts
2025 was a year of extremes in rugby—a year where dominance was redefined, and underdogs rose to challenge the status quo. But as we look ahead to 2026 and the 2027 World Cup, the biggest question remains: who will rise to the occasion, and who will be left behind? The debate is open—what’s your take?
