HALF-BACKS
10. Dan Carter – New Zealand
Perhaps the least surprising selection comes at fly-half.
Owens had witnessed plenty of outstanding number 10s, but Dan Carter’s longevity separated him from the competition.
Carter’s place had been questioned heading into the 2015 Rugby World Cup after several injury-hit seasons.
He responded emphatically, producing a magnificent tournament as the All Blacks became the first nation to retain the Rugby World Cup.
Owens refereed that final against Australia at Twickenham.
“There are lots of outside-halves who have been great,” Owens said, before explaining that none had maintained Carter’s level for so many years.
He added that Carter’s comeback to perform so brilliantly at the 2015 World Cup was “a sign of a special player.”
9. Agustín Pichot – Argentina
Owens admitted former Wales and Lions scrum-half Dwayne Peel came very close to getting his vote.
Instead, he selected Argentina legend Agustín Pichot.
The former Pumas captain was one of the driving forces behind Argentina’s transformation into an international powerhouse.
Owens described Pichot as both a great player and “a great ambassador for the game of rugby.”
Alongside Felipe Contepomi, Pichot helped inspire Argentina’s historic run to third place at the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
FRONT-ROW
1. Gethin Jenkins – Wales
Owens knew Gethin Jenkins particularly well from refereeing him in domestic rugby.
The legendary loosehead accumulated 129 Wales caps and represented the Lions on three tours.
Owens joked about Jenkins’ notoriously serious demeanour.
He said: “When I’ve penalised him and he’s smiled, I know I’d got the decision right!”
More importantly, Owens praised Jenkins for standing the test of time, believing his longevity spoke volumes about both his ability and character.
2. John Smit – South Africa
John Smit is the sole Springbok in Owens’ XV.
Smit captained South Africa to their 2007 Rugby World Cup triumph before leading them to a famous series victory against the British & Irish Lions two years later.
Leadership was clearly a major factor in Owens’ decision.
He described Smit as “one of the greatest captains I have dealt with”, while also praising him as a good man and an outstanding hooker.
3. Phil Vickery – England
Only one Englishman made the final XV.
World Cup winner Phil Vickery edged out former All Blacks prop Carl Hayman for the tighthead jersey.
Owens remembered Vickery as an excellent player to referee because of the way he dealt with decisions.
“He wasn’t one of those who would whinge,” Owens explained, adding that Vickery would accept the referee’s call and simply get on with the game.
At his peak with Wasps and England, Owens described the powerful prop as a “formidable force.”
