Today we take a look back at some of the greatest rugby players of this century. While this is certainly not an exhaustive list, it is nice to remember some of the more modern legends of the game.
Brian O’Driscoll
The greatest player to ever wear the Irish shirt, Brian O’Driscoll was a truly immense player. In his position at centre, BOD holds the record for the most tries ever. As Ireland’s most decorated player, O’Driscoll was named the Six Nations player of the tournament on three separate occasions – 2006, 2007, and 2009. One of his finest moments came in 2009, a year that saw the Dublin man lead Ireland to their first Grand Slam in over 60 years. In addition, the Irish legend represented his country in the last three World Cups, taking the wee nation as far as the quarterfinals in 2011.
Jonny Wilkinson
2001 saw the rise of England’s greatest ever kicker, however, it was 2003 when Jonny Wilkinson really shot to fame. In the most iconic World Cup final moment, Wilkinson scored a drop-goal in the dying minutes of extra time to give England an invaluable victory over Australia. Following this incredible feat, hampered by a reoccurrence of injuries, so many critics decided to write Wilkinson off. Ever the warrior, Jonny proved the doubters wrong by taking England to the World Cup final of 2007, an encounter they narrowly lost against South Africa. Up until 2011, impressively, Wilkinson was rugby’s highest ever point scorer, until a Kiwi called Dan Carter came along and surpassed him.
Richie McCaw
Back in 2001, despite his undoubted inexperience, McCaw was chosen for New Zealand’s end-of-season tour. In his debut match against Ireland, a game us Irish will never forget, McCaw was named man of the match after a simply stunning performance. From that moment on McCaw became a key part of the New Zealand setup, eventually being named captain five years later. Criticized heavily after New Zealand exited the 2007 World Cup early, McCaw responded to the negativity by leading his nation to World Cup glory four years on, a tournament where he was easily the most impressive performer. A triple IRB Player of the Year recipient (2006, 2009, and 2010), Richie McCaw is the finest flanker of his generation
Martin Johnson
Johnson’s rise to eminence was either meant to be or rather fortuitous, it depends on the way you view the back-story. In 1993, the colossus was scheduled to represent his club; however, England suddenly required his services. This urgent demand came after one of their starters picked up a serious injury, and Johnson was spectacularly named on the team sheet. It was quite a debut, as England defeated the French. After that encounter, Johnson was a regular, playing a pivotal role in England’s 1995 Grand Slam win. In 1999, deservedly and appropriately, Johnson became captain, going on to captain England to World Cup glory in 2003. In 2008, three years after retiring, Johnson was appointed English manager. After his team underperformed at 2011’s World Cup, Johnson was relieved of his duties. Possessing the facial features of a man who always appears angry, he cut the perfect fit as a no nonsense player and coach.
Dan Carter
What superlatives haven’t been used to describe Dan Carter? For so many, the New Zealand native is the greatest kicker ever to grace the game of rugby. Holder of the point scoring world record, which he wrestled from the hands of Jonny Wilkinson (figuratively), Carter’s career defining moment came when he scored 33 points against the British and Irish Lions. This incredible feat arrived back in 2005, an achievement that almost doubled the previous record for a New Zealander in a single match. Undoubtedly one of the finest performances in rugby history, the most modest man in rugby is also a living legend.
Who would you nominate to add to our list? Why not comment below and let us know who you think should be amongst the greatest rugby players of this century (so far).
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