Richie McCaw’s envisioned lineup comprising players he has shared the rugby field with stands as a formidable force capable of rivalling teams across various generations of the sport.
A retrospective journey through the annals of rugby reveals that, at 40 years old, McCaw selectively reserves his accolades for those players whom he genuinely holds in high esteem.
Born on December 31, 1980, in Oamaru, New Zealand, Richie McCaw has left an indelible mark on the world of rugby. With a career spanning from 2001 to 2015, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers and captains in the history of the sport. McCaw’s leadership skills, tenacity, and unparalleled ability to read the game have earned him acclaim from fans and fellow players alike.
As the captain of the New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks, McCaw achieved remarkable success, leading the team to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. His exceptional career also includes numerous individual awards, cementing his status as a rugby legend.
McCaw’s dream team, a carefully curated selection of players he deems worthy of admiration, speaks volumes about the caliber of athletes he has had the privilege of sharing the pitch with. This collection of rugby talent, handpicked by McCaw himself, symbolizes the pinnacle of skill, dedication, and sportsmanship.
In his retrospection, McCaw does not lavish praise indiscriminately. Instead, he reserves his commendations for those who have not only exhibited exceptional playing prowess but also embodied the values that define the spirit of rugby. His discerning eye for talent and character underscores the significance of inclusion in his dream team.
RICHIE MCCAW DREAM TEAM:
BACK-THREE:
15. Christian Cullen (New Zeland)
14. Julian Savea (New Zealand)
11. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
McCawon Lomu: “When I first became an All Black he was in the team. To play alongside a guy you have watched as a young fella was pretty amazing. He made me look silly in training more than once.
“He is one of the absolute superstars of rugby. If you go to somewhere where rugby is perhaps not well known then the one guy they do know is Jonah. It’s really sad that he’s passed away at age 40. He was a legend of the All Blacks and a legend of rugby.:
CENTRES:
13. Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
12. Jonny Wilkinson (England)
McCaw on Wilkinson: “He’ll go down as one of the greats of world rugby.”