5. Matt Burke
After losing his Super Rugby playing contract with the NSW Waratahs, Burke was offered contracts by eight different clubs – including other teams in the Super Rugby competition.
Instead, he joined the Newcastle Falcons, where he has played alongside former English rival Jonny Wilkinson (his opposite kicker in Lions tour of Australia).
During his four years at Kingston Park, he scored 288 points in 59 appearances and also won the ‘Player of the Year’ at the Falcons and was named as captain of the side.
6. Michael Lynagh
A 32-year-old Lynagh became one of the first major signings as the game turned professional when he joined Saracens, guiding them to a 48-18 victory over Wasps in the 1998 Tetley Bitter Cup final.