Martin Johnson names the best players he ever played with

, Jason Leonard was the cornerstone of England’s scrum for more than a decade.

A World Cup–winning captain, a Lions icon and one of the most formidable, no-nonsense locks the sport has known, he forged his reputation on uncompromising standards and unwavering consistency.

Across 84 England appearances, two Six Nations Grand Slams and the crowning glory of 2003, he shared the field with many of the defining players of rugby’s professional age.

So when Johnson was asked to pick his all-time dream team, the fact he selected just three former teammates says everything. These are the players who, in his eyes, set themselves apart.

Bio:
England’s all-time great fly-half, Jonny Wilkinson redefined what it meant to be a No.10.

Renowned for his obsessive preparation, defensive bravery and ice-cold nerve, Wilkinson earned 91 England caps, won the 2003 Rugby World Cup and remains one of the most influential figures the sport has produced.

Johnson said:
“Jonny is special, not just for his kicking. I remember in the 2003 Grand Slam decider in Dublin, Ireland attacked down the right and Jonny was there to stop them; then they switched quickly to the left and Jonny was there to stop them too.”

For Johnson, it wasn’t just the drop goals and penalties — it was Wilkinson’s total commitment, especially in defence, that elevated him above everyone else.

Bio:
Nicknamed The Fun Bus

A rare prop who could operate comfortably on both sides, Leonard won 114 England caps, appeared in four World Cups and played in two finals, including the 2003 triumph.

Johnson said:
“Solid as a rock, was regularly asked to play on both sides of the scrum and never moaned. His record of four World Cups and two finals says it all.”

Leonard embodied everything Johnson valued: durability, adaptability and a complete lack of ego.

Bio:
One of the most understated back-row forwards in rugby history, Richard Hill was the ultimate team player.

With 71 England caps and a central role in the 2003 World Cup win, Hill’s influence was often felt more than it was seen — through work rate, defensive reads and tactical intelligence.

Johnson said:
“A quiet guy, very understated, was the pick. When he was with the Lions teams, if he didn’t play, we didn’t win. He would be embarrassed to be in this side, but he deserves it.”

Hill was never flashy, but Johnson knew exactly how vital he was — the kind of player teams miss the moment he’s not there.