With the 2019 Rugby World Cup slowly edging nearer, RUCK.co.uk has had a look back at the 2007 Rugby World Cup team of the tournament.
We’ve remembered why they were in the team but also had a look at what this XV are doing now 11 year’s on.
2007 Rugby World Cup team of the tournament:
1. Andrew Sheridan (England)
Why was he on the team?
The 6ft 5in prop got hailed as a new hero of English rugby after his inspiring performance in the quarter-finals where he demolished the Australia pack. His immense power and consistency led to him being regarded as one of the elite props in world rugby. Therefore, he was one of England’s key assets during the tournament, regularly earning them the edge up front.
What is he doing now?
After the World Cup in 2007 he went on to be part of the British and Irish Lions tour in 2009. The prop then made the cut for 2011 tournament but had his tournament ended after just 63 minutes due to injury against Argentina. He then joined Toulon in 2012, ending his England career, before he retired altogether from rugby in September 2014 on medical grounds. He is now concentrating on his music career.
Did you know: In 2010, Sheridan recorded and released an acoustic rock album, entitled “Where We Go From Here”.
2. John Smit (South Africa)
Why was he on the team?
The Springbok Skipper led his nation to a first World Cup triumph since their famous win in 1995. The natural leader was outstanding throughout the tournament, starting six out of seven games. Smit never lost his nerve, especially in the tense final against England.
What is he doing now?
In 2009, Smit led the Springboks to a 2-1 series victory over the British & Irish Lions before leading his country into the World Cup again in 2011. The Boks were this knocked out by Australia in the quarter-finals, and Smit stepped into international retirement shortly after. After retiring from the game completely in 2013, the former South Africa Skipper was appointed by the Shark’s, his old club, as their new CEO.
Did you know: Between October 2003 and June 2007, Smit played in a record 46 consecutive Test matches for South Africa.
3. Pieter de Villiers (France)
Why was he on the team?
The French tighthead was one of the few props to stand up and be counted against England’s Sheridan. His force and power at the scrum and breakdown was a major reason why Les Bleus were able to reach the semi-finals.
What is he doing now?
Following the World Cup he suffered a neck injury in December 2007 that sidelined him for a large part of the rest of 2007/08 season. After recovering he had difficulty getting back into the Stade Francais squad and announced his retirement from all rugby at the end of the season.
De Villiers was most recently scrum coach for the South African National Rugby team and is regarded as a trusted aid of current coach Heyneke Meyer.