RANKED | These are statistically the best goal-kickers in the world - Page 5 of 5 - Ruck

RANKED | These are statistically the best goal-kickers in the world

6. Francois Pienaar (South Africa)

Springbok Captain Pienaar is famous for leading South Africa to triumph in the World Cup in 1995.

Despite only making 29 Caps, each was as Captain, and he showed to the world his considerable rugby skills.

Not only did Pienaar’s side topple a heavily fancied All Blacks team in front of an expectant South Africa population, but they also managed in their small way to bring together South Africa’s post-apartheid society

Did you know: After being dropped from the Springbok team Pienaar went on to have a career with English club Saracens.
Honourable mentions: Richard Hill (England), Jerry Collins (New Zealand), Jerome Kaino (New Zealand)

7. Richie McCaw (New Zealand) 

The former All Black Captain McCaw is one of the true rugby greats, moulding a career as the best flanker of all time.

McCaw led the All Blacks to Rugby World Cup glory in 2011 and 2015 and claimed the International Rugby Board’s Player of the Year award on a record three occasions (2006, 2009. 2010).

He became the first All Black to reach 100 Tests in 2011. Then by the time he hung up his boots; he had played 148 Tests (coming off the bench just six times) and was Captain in 111 Tests.

Did you know: In April 2011, McCaw received an invitation to the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. However, as McCaw had only recently returned from his injury, he decided to decline the offer, preferring to focus on Super Rugby and the Rugby World Cup.
Honourable mentions: George Smith (Australia), Neil Back (England) Schalk Burger (South Africa)

8. Zinzan Brooke (New Zealand)

He was an effective forward but also had top-class handling skills and a trustworthy boot making him quite the unique player.

During his international career that spanned a decade from 1987 to 1997, he played in two World Cups in 1991 and 1995 scoring an unforgettable drop goal from 47 metres out against England in the latter.

Brooke in total played 58 tests for New Zealand, scoring 89 points.

Did you know: As well as rugby union, Brooke played Gaelic football, both before and after his rugby career.
Honourable mentions: Sergio Parisse (Italy), Lawrence Dallaglio (England), Wayne Shelford (New Zealand)