Martin Johnson, the iconic figure in rugby union, has unveiled his ultimate XV, a lineup that notably omits legends such as Lawrence Dallaglio, Shane Williams, Brian O’Driscoll, and Jason Robinson.
Renowned for his role as the captain who steered England to victory at the 2003 Rugby World Cup and led the British & Irish Lions on two groundbreaking occasions in 1997 and 2001 – a feat unmatched in history.
Throughout his illustrious career, Johnson was a pivotal part of two triumphant Grand Slam-winning England teams in 1995 and once again as captain in the memorable 2003 campaign.
In this exclusive revelation, Johnson presents his extraordinary dream team selection.
BACK-THREE:
Fullback: Serge Blanco (France) – “A great France full back who dominated games.”
Winger: Joe Roff (Australia) – “You’d put David Campese up there but Roff is my choice. A fantastic all-round rugby player, and old-style wing.”
Winger: Jonah Lomu (New Zealand) – “Not much difficulty in choosing one of the most awesome wings to have ever played.”
CENTRES:
Outside-centre: Philippe Sella (France) – “I used to watch him as a kid on TV and think he was brilliant; and then ten years later I played against him and he was still brilliant. He still looks as if he could play for France today. One of the best backs I’ve ever seen. If you hit him it was like running into concrete.”
Inside-centre: Danie Gerber (South Africa) – “Scored a hat-trick against England in the first half in one match in the 1980s. He didn’t play many Tests because of apartheid, but he had power and pace. I don’t know if he could pass: it seemed like he never needed to. I played against him in a charity match in 1996 when he must have been well into his 40s, he was still awesome.”