Nigel Owens ranks the five best players he refereed

byRugby Rucker

Legendary referee Nigel Owens has revealed the five greatest players he officiated during his career, naming them as part of his all-time XV for Wales Online.

From iconic captains to generational talents, these are the names that earned his highest praise.

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5. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)

Bio: A towering second row and one of the most capped players in rugby history, Jones captained Wales for over a decade and led the British & Irish Lions in 2021.

Known for his durability, leadership and relentless work rate, he was central to multiple Six Nations titles and Grand Slams.

“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.”

4. Sergio Parisse (Italy)

Bio: Widely regarded as Italy’s greatest ever player, Parisse was a dynamic No.8 who combined physicality with exceptional skill.

A long-time captain of Italy and a star for Stade Français, he earned over 140 caps and was renowned for his offloading ability and all-round game.

“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.

“Maybe there’s a tendency to try and do too much because he’s been in an Italy or Stade Francais team which hasn’t been at its best, but he’s been extraordinary."

3. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)

Bio: One of the greatest centres in rugby union history, O’Driscoll captained Ireland national rugby union team and the British & Irish Lions.

With over 130 international caps, he was instrumental in Ireland’s 2009 Grand Slam and was famed for his intelligence, defensive skill and attacking flair.

“Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.

“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”

2. Shane Williams (Wales)

Bio: A dazzling winger known for his agility and footwork, Williams overcame early doubts about his size to become one of Wales’ most prolific try scorers. The 2008 World Rugby Player of the Year, he starred in multiple Six Nations triumphs and was a key figure in Wales’ attacking play during the 2000s.

“When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.

“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.

“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Stuart Hogg and Israel Folau, I can tell you that.”

1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

Bio: Considered one of the greatest players of all time, McCaw captained the New Zealand national rugby union team to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. A tireless flanker with unmatched leadership and breakdown expertise, he earned 148 caps and won multiple World Rugby Player of the Year awards.

“Even though there’s been David Pocock and others in this position, how can I not go with Richie?

“If anybody had to pick the greatest player in history, it would surely be a difficult choice between him and Gareth Edwards.

“How McCaw managed to put his body on the line and sometimes the wrong side at rucks for so many years at flanker is incredible.”