5. Luke Charteris — “The Tackle Machine” (2.10 m)

Nationality: Wales
Position: Lock
Caps: 74
Clubs: Dragons, Bath Rugby

Charteris was Wales’ most dependable lock for years, earning the nickname “The Tackle Machine” after recording a Six Nations record of 31 tackles in a single match. A master of line-out strategy and defensive dominance, his career embodied the physical and mental demands of top-level rugby.

4. Devin Toner — “Big Dev” (2.10 m)

Nationality: Ireland
Position: Lock
Caps: 70
Clubs: Leinster

Ireland’s tallest ever player, Devin Toner — affectionately called “Big Dev” — combined a towering frame with extraordinary skill. Known for his calm precision in line-outs and unmatched endurance, Toner became a stalwart of Leinster and Ireland’s Grand Slam-winning sides.

3. Will Carrick-Smith — “The Bus” (2.11 m)

Nationality: England
Position: Lock
Caps: —
Clubs: Exeter Chiefs, London Scottish, Bedford Blues

Nicknamed “The Bus,” Carrick-Smith earned his reputation as a powerhouse in the second row. His imposing stature and skill at the line-out made him a consistent threat. His career journey is a testament to patience and hard work in professional rugby.

2. Dean Williams — “The Towering Titan” (2.13 m)

Nationality: England / New Zealand
Position: Lock
Caps: —
Clubs: Suburbs RFC, Macclesfield Blues, Sedgley Tigers

At an astounding 2.13 m, Dean Williams was a physical phenomenon on the field. Known as “The Towering Titan,” he dominated line-outs and bulldozed through defenders, becoming a beloved figure in both New Zealand and English club rugby.

1. Richard Metcalfe — “The Giant of Rugby” (2.13 m)

Nationality: Scotland
Position: Lock
Caps: 13
Clubs: Newcastle Falcons, Northampton Saints

Richard Metcalfe remains rugby’s tallest ever player. Known as “The Giant of Rugby,” his height gave Scotland a massive advantage in set-pieces. Despite a career cut short by injury, Metcalfe’s stature and impact on the field are legendary.

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