Few figures in rugby command as much respect as World Cup-winning captain Martin Johnson. A leader of England’s golden era, Johnson played alongside and against some of the greatest players the sport has ever seen.
So when he names a dream XV, it carries serious weight.
Blending iconic figures from different generations, Johnson’s selections highlight power, intelligence, and sheer brilliance across the pitch. Here’s a closer look at each player in his all-time team.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
🔙 BACK THREE
Fullback: Serge Blanco (France)
One of the most naturally gifted attacking fullbacks in rugby history, Blanco revolutionised the role with his counter-attacking flair and creativity. A key figure in France’s rise during the 1980s, he remains one of the sport’s most elegant players.
Johnson said: “A great France full back who dominated games.”
Wing: Joe Roff (Australia)
A versatile and intelligent back, Roff could play across the backline but excelled on the wing. A World Cup winner in 1999, he combined traditional wing play with modern all-round ability.
Johnson said: “You’d put David Campese up there but Roff is my choice. A fantastic all-round rugby player, and old-style wing.”
Wing: Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
A global superstar who transcended rugby, Lomu’s blend of size, pace, and power changed the game forever. His performances at the 1995 Rugby World Cup remain some of the most iconic in sporting history.
Johnson said: “Not much difficulty in choosing one of the most awesome wings to have ever played.”
🧠 MIDFIELD
Outside Centre: Philippe Sella (France)
One of the most complete centres the game has seen, Sella combined toughness, skill, and longevity. A cornerstone of French rugby for over a decade, he was as effective in defence as he was in attack.
Johnson said: “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)
Gerber was a devastating runner with rare pace and strength. Although his international career was limited due to apartheid, his reputation as one of South Africa’s greatest backs remains unquestioned.
Johnson said: “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.”
