The Halfback Masters
9. Gary Armstrong (Scotland)
A scrappy and aggressive scrum-half, Armstrong had “sheer character and resilience,” says Wilkinson. “He would deal with everything himself,” providing total control of the game.
10. Fly-Half Madness (Lynagh, Carter, Larkham, Stransky, Fox)
Wilkinson couldn’t settle on just one! “This is the key position for any World Cup-winning team,” he says, citing the leadership qualities of Michael Lynagh, Dan Carter, Stephen Larkham, Joel Stransky, and Grant Fox as crucial.
Midfield Magic
12. Tim Horan (Australia)
Horan’s winning mentality stood out to Wilkinson. “His body language suggested he didn’t know how to fail,” Wilkinson comments. Horan’s ability to rise in the toughest moments made him a must-pick.
13. Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Described as a game-changer, O’Driscoll had “the ability to change the game in a heartbeat,” says Wilkinson. His leadership, skill, and rugby brain made him one of the greatest centres ever.
Back-Three Legends
11. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
A true force of nature, Lomu is a must in any dream team. “No Rugby World Cup team would be complete without him,” Wilkinson says, summing up the giant winger’s unmatched legacy.
14. Jason Robinson (England)
Wilkinson credits Robinson for changing games with his explosiveness. “We wouldn’t have won the World Cup without him,” Wilkinson admits, highlighting Robinson’s pivotal role in England’s 2003 triumph.
15. Serge Blanco (France)
Blanco brought audacity and flair to French rugby. Wilkinson admired his counter-attacking prowess, saying, “He typified French rugby at its best.”
EDITORS PICKS:
Like this:
Like Loading…