Nigel Owens reveals Richie McCaw is only the THIRD best captain he refereed

bySteven Smith

Legendary referee Nigel Owens has officiated more than his fair share of high-stakes Test matches, but when asked by
Wales Online to name the top five captains he's ever encountered on the field, the popular Welshman made one thing clear from the start: no Welshmen allowed.

Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia

“I am not going to include any Welsh players on my list because I haven’t refereed them in international matches,” Owens explained.

Despite some eyebrow-raising omissions, the list is packed with iconic leaders, known not just for their rugby IQ but for their class, consistency, and ability to rally a team when it mattered most.

Let’s take a closer look at the five names Owens will never forget — and his shock No.1 pick.

? #5. Chris Robshaw – England’s Relentless Workhorse

Position: Flanker
Caps: 66
Captaincy: 2012–2015

Often a divisive figure due to England’s inconsistent form during his reign, Chris Robshaw nonetheless earned Owens’ deep respect.

“Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."

Robshaw may not have lifted trophies as skipper, but his tireless effort and humility clearly made a mark.

? #4. Jean de Villiers – The Gentleman of Springbok Rugby

Position: Centre
Caps: 109
Captaincy: 2012–2015

A true ambassador of the game, Jean de Villiers was as respected for his leadership as he was for his silky skills in the midfield.

“He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me.”

Owens highlights De Villiers’ calm authority and sportsmanship — qualities that made him a standout captain on the global stage.

? #3. Richie McCaw – The Ultimate Professional

Position: Flanker
Caps: 148
Captaincy: 2006–2015

You knew this name would appear. Richie McCaw, arguably the greatest All Black of all time, makes the list — but surprisingly, not at No.1.

“He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players… New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost.”

That level of class in both victory and defeat? Pure McCaw.

☘️ #2. Paul O’Connell & Brian O’Driscoll – Ireland’s Dynamic Duo

O’Connell: Lock – 108 caps
O’Driscoll: Centre – 133 caps
Captaincy Combined: 2002–2014

In a rare move, Owens couldn’t split these two Irish icons — and who could blame him?

“Whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day, O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper. O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell. I found them excellent to deal with.”

Between O’Driscoll’s sharp mind and O’Connell’s engine room authority, Ireland were in safe hands.

?? #1. Thierry Dusautoir – The Silent Assassin Who Stunned the All Blacks

Position: Flanker
Caps: 80
Captaincy: 2009–2015

And the No.1 spot goes to… Thierry Dusautoir — the man who captained through courage, conviction, and countless bone-crunching tackles.

“My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was. He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."

Known for his quiet demeanour off the field and explosive presence on it, Dusautoir earns Owens’ ultimate respect — and his place at the top of this elite list.