#2.\u00a0Schalk Burger\u00a0(South Africa)<\/p>\n
Position:\u00a0Back-row
Height:\u00a06 ft 4 in
Weight:\u00a0242 lb
Caps:\u00a086<\/p>\n
A physical powerhouse, Schalk Burger brought relentless aggression and intensity to the breakdown. Known for his uncompromising style, he was one of the toughest opponents McCaw regularly faced.<\/p>\n
McCaw reflected:<\/p>\n
\u201cYou can play against a tough team and not feel like you\u2019ve had a tough match against your opposite. But with Burger, you always knew where he\u2019d be and how hard he\u2019d go at the ball.\u201d<\/p>\n
Did you know?\u00a0Off the field, Burger works with his family on their wine estate in South Africa\u2019s Western Cape.<\/p>\n
#1.\u00a0George Smith\u00a0(Australia)<\/p>\n
Position:\u00a0Back-row
Height:\u00a05 ft 11 in
Weight:\u00a0233 lb
Caps:\u00a0111<\/p>\n
Topping McCaw\u2019s list is Wallabies legend George Smith \u2014 a player he considered the most challenging opponent of all.<\/p>\n
Smith enjoyed a remarkable 13-year international career, earning 111 caps and facing the All Blacks 24 times.<\/p>\n
McCaw admitted:<\/p>\n
\u201cHe was always incredibly tough. I remember playing him at under-19 level and thinking even then what a good player he was.\u201d<\/p>\n
Did you know?\u00a0Smith was famous for his dreadlocks, which he later cut off and donated to charity supporting young cancer patients.<\/p>\n
QUIZ: Can you name these retro All Blacks?<\/p>\n
Renowned for their international dominance, the All Blacks are widely regarded as one of the most successful teams in sporting history. From legendary captains to game-changing backs and fearless forwards, generations of players have built a legacy that few can match.<\/p>\n