Rugby world fails to recognize the contributions of props

In the world of rugby, props have often been overlooked despite their significant contributions to the sport. Recent discussions have highlighted that 117 players were shortlisted for the World Rugby's Player of the Year award, but not a single prop has ever received this honor. This glaring oversight raises questions regarding the criteria and perspectives used by the award judges, who may benefit from a visit to France, where the role of props is better appreciated. Notably, Dan Cole, an accomplished prop player, currently ranks second in England's all-time list, showcasing the esteemed legacy and hard work prop players contribute. Furthermore, Tendai 'the Beast' Mtawarira is recognized as the fourth-most capped Springbok, reflecting the international importance of props in rugby. The 2024 Top of the Props award has also identified Ox Nche of South Africa as the best in the world, exemplifying how recognition for this position is slowly growing, albeit only through niche awards. The lack of mainstream accolades signifies an ongoing struggle for props to achieve visibility compared to other rugby positions. Afolabi Fasogbon, who played a vital role in England's Under-20 World Cup success, is another example of talent that has not been highlighted sufficiently in the past. It becomes increasingly evident that while props possess immense value, they remain underappreciated relative to their contributions, urging a reevaluation in the recognition they receive within the sport. This continued neglect prompts calls for dedicated awards aimed specifically at honoring the efforts of these unheralded titans, ultimately aiming to elevate the status of props within rugby culture.