There is so much debate about the Out Half position for the Ireland rugby team, we look at the top ten players who could wear the number 10 shirt at the next world cup.
Ireland has more out-half options than at any point in the last decade, but opinions on pecking order vary wildly depending on who you ask. This is one ranking — a straight, honest depth chart based on current form, reliability, potential, and what each player brings heading into the end of 2025.
Below is Joe’s personal ranking of the top 10 Irish-qualified 10s, in order, with clear factual context for each.
1. Harry Byrne
Byrne has finally had a long, uninterrupted run of games, and his control, kicking accuracy, and game-management have matured massively. When fully fit, he is one of the most composed out-halves in Ireland, and his skillset suits modern test rugby.
2. Sam Prendergast
Still young, still developing, but his ceiling is enormous. Prendergast brings creativity, long passing range, and a booming left boot. He is already a central figure in Leinster’s long-term planning and continues to grow into the shirt.
3. Jack Crowley
Crowley remains a high-quality operator with strong all-round fundamentals. He has plenty of big-game mileage with Munster and remains one of Ireland’s safest and most experienced options in the position.
4. Ciarán Frawley
Frawley is the most versatile back in the country — able to play 10, 12, and 15. That flexibility sometimes pushes him out of the pure 10 conversation, but his distribution, kicking game, and control make him a top-tier option when needed.
5. Casper Gabriel
A young talent who has gathered momentum through provincial development systems. Gabriel is still very much a prospect, but his potential is the reason he ranks this high. Strong technically and highly rated by those who have watched him closely.
6. JJ Hanrahan
The experienced head on the list. Hanrahan has played in multiple leagues, understands the position inside out, and remains a reliable, steady 10 who can step in and control a game with maturity.
7. Jack McGrath
Another player viewed as a developing option with a tidy kicking game and good tactical shape. Still progressing, but clearly talented enough to be included in the national discussion as depth builds.
8. Sean Naughton
A younger option, improving year on year. Shows sharp decision-making, good organisation, and has the raw tools to push further up the rankings with more game time and refinement.
9. Jack Carty
One of the most experienced out-halves in the country. While others have overtaken him in long-term projection, Carty’s passing range and composure keep him relevant and useful in any ranking.
10. Tony Butler
Still early in his senior career, but progressing well. Butler has shown confidence and solid fundamentals, earning his place on the list as another promising Munster-developed 10 with room to grow.
