As of 2023, the National Rugby League (NRL) boasts some of the world’s most talented and highly skilled rugby players. These players are highly skilled athletes who have dedicated their lives to the game, and their performances on the field have earned them worldwide recognition. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the 10 best NRL rugby league players in 2023, including lots of statistics and interesting facts about each player, and explain why they are so good.
- Nathan Cleary
Nathan Cleary is a halfback who plays for the Penrith Panthers. He was named the 2021 Dally M Medallist, which is awarded to the NRL’s best player of the season. Cleary is known for his exceptional passing and kicking skills, as well as his ability to control the game and make crucial decisions under pressure. In 2021, Cleary had the highest number of try assists and line-break assists of any player in the NRL, and he also kicked the most goals in the competition. His impressive performances helped lead the Panthers to the 2021 NRL Grand Final, where they narrowly lost to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
- Tom Trbojevic
Tom Trbojevic is a fullback who plays for the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles. In 2021, he was named the NRL’s best fullback and earned selection in the NSW State of Origin team. Trbojevic is known for his speed, agility, and incredible footwork, which allows him to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. In 2021, Trbojevic scored 27 tries in just 23 games, which was the most by any player in the NRL.
- James Tedesco
James Tedesco is a fullback who plays for the Sydney Roosters. He has won two Dally M Medals and a Golden Boot award. Tedesco is known for his speed, agility, and incredible footwork, which allows him to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. In 2021, Tedesco had the highest number of tackle breaks and the second-most line-break assists of any player in the NRL.
- Cameron Munster
Cameron Munster is a five-eighth who plays for the Melbourne Storm and the Queensland State of Origin team. He has won two NRL premierships with the Storm and was a key player in the team’s success in 2021. Munster is known for his strength, speed, and incredible ball-handling skills, which allow him to break through tackles and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. In 2021, Munster had the second-most try assists and the fourth-most line-break assists of any player in the NRL.
- Harry Grant
Harry Grant is a hooker who plays for the Melbourne Storm and the Queensland State of Origin team. He was named the 2020 NRL Rookie of the Year and has quickly become one of the most exciting players in the league. Grant is known for his quick thinking, agility, and incredible passing skills, which allow him to set up scoring opportunities for his teammates. In 2021, Grant had the fourth-most try assists and the third-most line-break assists of any player in the NRL.
- Daly Cherry-Evans
Daly Cherry-Evans is a halfback who plays for the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles and the Queensland State of Origin team. He has won one NRL premiership with the Sea Eagles and was named the RLPA Player of the Year in 2019. Cherry-Evans is known for his exceptional kicking and passing skills, as well as his ability to control the game and make crucial decisions under pressure. In 2021, Cherry-Evans had the third-most try assists and the fifth-most line-break assists of any player in the NRL.
- Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is a fullback who plays for the New Zealand Warriors. He has won two Dally M Medals and a Golden Boot award. Tuivasa-Sheck is known for his speed, agility, and incredible footwork, which allows him to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. In 2021, he had the fourth-most tackle breaks of any player in the NRL.
- Damien Cook
Damien Cook is a hooker who plays for the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the NSW State of Origin team. He has won one NRL premiership with the Rabbitohs and was named the Dally M Hooker of the Year in 2019. Cook is known for his quick thinking, agility, and incredible passing skills, which allow him to set up scoring opportunities for his teammates. In 2021, Cook had the third-most tackles and the second-most dummy-half runs of any player in the NRL.
In conclusion, the NRL has once again showcased an array of incredible talent in the 2023 season. From electrifying tries to bone-crunching tackles, the league has been filled with moments of sheer brilliance from its players. After careful consideration, we’ve identified the best of the best – those players who have consistently performed at the highest level and have left a lasting impact on the game.
From the genius of Nathan Cleary to the blistering speed of Damien Cook, these players have proven that they are truly the cream of the crop. Their performances on the field have not only entertained fans but also inspired young players to strive for greatness.
FAQ
Who is the best NRL player of all time?
This is a highly debated topic among NRL fans, but some of the most commonly cited players include Johnathan Thurston, Andrew Johns, Wally Lewis, Darren Lockyer, and Cameron Smith.
How much do NRL players get paid?
NRL players’ salaries can vary widely depending on their experience, skill level, and contract negotiations. The minimum wage for NRL players in 2021 was $100,000, while top players can earn millions of dollars per year.
How many players are on an NRL team?
An NRL team typically consists of 17 players – 13 on the field and 4 on the interchange bench.
How are NRL players selected for representative teams?
Players are usually selected for representative teams based on their performance in NRL matches, as well as other factors such as their leadership skills and character. Coaches and selectors may also consider players’ fitness and injury history.
Can NRL players play for other countries?
Yes, NRL players who are eligible for other countries (e.g., through ancestry or residency) can choose to represent those countries in international matches. However, players who have already represented one country in an international match may be ineligible to play for another country.
