4. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
A man of few words, he does his talking on the field with his actions. Not only is he a brilliant player and a very good captain but I don’t think I have reffed a match where he hasn’t given absolutely everything.
![](https://www.ruck.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/2088092-1024x566.jpg)
5. Paul O’Connell (Ireland)
Quite simply he was just an exceptional leader. I have been in charge of games where he pretty much carried his team, whether it was Munster or Ireland, almost on his back and onto victory.
![](https://www.ruck.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/1837099-1.jpg)
6. Theirry Dusautoir (France)
He was right up there as one of the best captains I have refereed and we greatly respected one another.
![](https://www.ruck.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/download-2-1.jpg)
7. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
If anybody had to pick the greatest player in history, it would surely be a difficult choice between him and Gareth Edwards.
![](https://www.ruck.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/RichieMccawSteveHansenSteinlagerRugbyrVXm0crIXMJl-1.jpg)
8. Sergio Parisse (Italy)
I’ve been fortunate to have refereed some tremendous No.8s during my career but Sergio is tops. He’s such a talented player and rarely has a bad game.