Ranking the 10 Best Hookers in Rugby History - Page 2 of 3 - Ruck

Ranking the 10 Best Hookers in Rugby History

7 Dane Coles

The All Blacks hooker made his first-class debut in 2007 and has also pulled on a black jersey for New Zealand Under 21 and for the Maori.

His strength, mobility and pace have helped him to redefine the abilities required for a modern-day international front rower.

The 28-year old has an ability to break through tackles and flat foot defenders, which sets him apart from any of the other current crop of hookers.

Did you know: Coles scored two tries on his provincial debut in 2007 for Wellington and scored a try on his Super Rugby debut against the Waratahs in 2009.

6 Brian Moore

Pitbull like hooker Brian Moore was a relentless performer for England in the late 1980’s, early 1990’s. He won a total of 64 England caps between 1987 and 1995, playing in three World Cups and winning Grand Slams in 1991, 1992 and 1995.

He was also voted Rugby World Player of the Year in 1991. He also became renowned for reading Shakespeare before a game in the dressing room to his teammates.

Did you know: He is a supporter of, and season ticket holder at, Chelsea football club.

5 Keith Wood

Force of nature Wood was a dominant figure in the Irish front row.

Wood made his international debut in 1994 against Australia and was capped 58 times for Ireland up until his retirement in 2003.

He played on the 1997 and 2001 Lions tours and was the inaugural winner of the IRB World Player of the Year award in 2001, seeing off competition from the likes of Geroge Gregan and Jonny Wilkinson.

Did you know: Wood now works for the BBC and The Daily Telegraph as a freelance journalist.

4 Phil Kearns

Fearless, capable and hugely talented hooker Phil Kearns was an essential part of the fruitful Australia team of the 1990’s.

He enjoyed an epic rivalry with New Zealand hooker Sean Fitzpatrick that was a constant highlight of Bledisloe Cup matches around the time.

He was a major part of Australia’s Rugby World Cup-winning teams of 1991 and 1999.

Did you know: Kearns is the brain behind the Sydney Charity Event, The Balmoral Burn, which is an annual run up one of Sydney’s steepest streets.
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