4. Richie McCaw (Jonny Wilkinson)
The heartbeat of the All Blacks for more than a decade, Richie McCaw captained New Zealand to Rugby World Cup glory in 2011 and 2015. Renowned for his relentless work-rate and leadership, he is considered one of the greatest players in rugby history.
Wilkinson said:
“The guy is quite a remarkable rugby legend and deserves to be so. No Rugby World Cup team would be complete without him.”
4. Joe Roff (Martin Johnson)
A key figure in Australia’s 1999 Rugby World Cup triumph, Joe Roff was a wonderfully balanced outside back whose pace, intelligence and versatility made him one of the best finishers of his generation.
Johnson said:
“You’d put David Campese up there but Roff is my choice. A fantastic all-round rugby player, and old-style wing.”
3. Bakkies Botha (Jonny Wilkinson)
A fearsome second-row and enforcer for the Springboks, Bakkies Botha was central to South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning campaign. His uncompromising physicality made him one of the most intimidating forwards in the professional era.
Wilkinson said:
“Someone incredibly fierce but very, very down to earth… at times he’s exactly what a team needs.”
3. Paul O’Connell (Martin Johnson)
A towering lock and inspirational leader, Paul O’Connell captained Ireland and the British & Irish Lions, earning a reputation as one of the most respected forwards of his generation.
Johnson said:
“The Ireland captain was a very special player… it was clear he was going to be something really special.”