10. Juan Martin Hernandez (Argentina)
Why was he on the team?
The World Cup was Juan Hernandez real arrival on the world stage as he put in a dazzling performance as the Pumas upset the host’s France in the competition opener. The Argentinean effort ended in the semi-final at the hands of eventual champions South Africa, but Hernandez had impressed enough to be nominated for the IRB Player of the Year award for 2007.
What is he doing now?
He missed the 2011 World Cup through injury and since had fallen out of favor with the Pumas. Nevertheless, the 33-year old was recalled to face South Africa in The Rugby Championship in 2015 and showed he still has what it takes. He put in a fantastic kicking display as Argentina recorded their first ever win against the Springboks’.
Did you know: Hernandez made his debut for the Pumas in a 144-0 thrashing of Paraguay in 2003.
11. Bryan Habana (South Africa)
Why was he on the team?
Flying wing Bryan Habana equaled Jonah Lomu’s World Cup record with eight tries in the tournament and proved he is the world’s most lethal winger. Excellent pace matched by the speed of thought and eye for a gap made him the perfect attacker but he showed in the final he can do the dirty work as well.
What is he doing now?
After the World Cup, Bryan Habana was awarded The 2007 IRB Player of the Year. Seven year’s on, aged 32, he is still very much a vital part of the South Africa set up heading into the upcoming 2015 World Cup. He also broke the Boks’ all-time try-scoring record during the 2011 World Cup.
Did you know: Prior to his first year of Super Rugby he was selected for the Springboks, scoring a try with his first touch of the ball in test rugby against England at Twickenham in 2004.
12. Felipe Contepomi (Argentina)
Why was he on the team?
The Puma’s Skipper justified his nomination for the IRB’s player of the year award after playing all seven of Argentina’s World Cup matches. He brought experience and class to the Pumas strong midfield as they finished the tournament in third.
What is he doing now?
Contepomi played his last international game for Argentina in October 2013 against Australia. Contepomi achieved the most test matches played for Argentina (87) and the most points scored in international games (651).