15 Maro Itoje
At the heart of England’s modern game stands Maro Itoje, a lock whose athleticism and relentless energy make him one of the world’s best. His ability to dominate lineouts, disrupt breakdowns, and inspire teammates has defined his international career. In 2025, he assumed the captaincy of both England and the British & Irish Lions, leading the Lions to a landmark series win over Australia. Intelligent, driven, and versatile, Itoje is a defining player of his era.
14 Jeremy Guscott
Few players combined elegance and effectiveness quite like Jeremy Guscott. A creative force in the 1990s and early 2000s, he brought vision, composure, and a natural ability to unlock defences. His influence stretched across club, country, and Lions tours, earning him a place among the greats. In 2016, his enduring contribution was recognised with induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame, sealing his reputation as one of England’s finest centres.
13 Neil Back
Never the biggest player on the field, Neil Back earned his reputation through tireless effort, sharp defensive work, and an uncanny ability to steal possession. He represented England in three World Cups and was a vital part of the 2003 winning team. His Lions career spanned three tours, including the historic 1997 victory in South Africa, and he even became the oldest test Lion during the 2005 tour to New Zealand. A 15-year career with Leicester Tigers showcased not just his consistency but also his leadership, combining playing duties with coaching before retiring as one of rugby’s most respected flankers.
12 Phil Vickery
Known as the “Raging Bull,” Phil Vickery anchored the English scrum with strength and determination. His career highlights include winning the 2003 Rugby World Cup and captaining England to the 2007 final. With three World Cup appearances and two Lions tours, he established himself as one of the most reliable props of his generation. Vickery’s leadership and grit embodied what it meant to wear the England shirt, earning him lasting respect as a cornerstone of the pack.
11 Owen Farrell
With a cool head under pressure and a boot that rarely misses, Owen Farrell has defined modern English rugby. Since his debut in 2012, he has amassed over 1,200 international points — the most in England’s history — while also leading Saracens to multiple titles. His influence stretched beyond his goal-kicking; as captain, he steered England to the 2019 World Cup final. Taking a step back from the international stage after 2023 but now available for England after re-joining Saracens, Farrell remains one of the game’s most composed playmakers and one of rugby’s all-time great point scorers.
10 Peter Winterbottom
Relentless in defence and fearless in the tackle, Peter Winterbottom was the heart of England’s back row throughout the 1980s. Winning 58 caps, he became England’s most-capped openside until Neil Back surpassed him in 2003. Twice a British & Irish Lion, he impressed in New Zealand with his durability and work rate, playing 19 matches for the tourists. His place in the Twickenham “Wall of Fame” reflects a career defined by courage, commitment, and consistency.
9 Emily Scarratt
Emily Scarratt’s name is etched into rugby history thanks to her record-breaking point-scoring feats and her influence as one of the Red Roses’ most dependable stars. With power, pace, and deadly accuracy from the tee, she has topped the charts for most points in women’s international rugby, including World Cup and Six Nations records. Her longevity and quality — earning her a place as England’s third most-capped player — have made her not just a match-winner, but a role model for the women’s game worldwide. Her involvement in the 2025 World Cup win marked fifth World Cup that she had played in for the Red Roses.
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