4. Paul O’Connell
Inspiring Ireland and British Lions Skipper Paul O’Connell was one of the most consistent players in Northern Hemisphere rugby in the last ten years.
The veteran warrior has won three Six Nations titles in the emerald green of Ireland including a Grand Slam triumph in 2009 as well as winning the Triple Crown four times in 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2009.
The legend hung up his boots following the 2015 World Cup due to injury.
Did you know: He supports English Premier League football team Everton F.C.
3. Victor Matfield
South Africa’s Victor Matfield defined the attributes required to be a modern-day second row: tall, powerful, mobile and with great hands.
During his 122 Test caps with the Springboks, he formed a formidable second-row partnership with Bakkies Botha that played a crucial role in South Africa claiming the 2007 World Cup in France.
Besides almost always winning his own line-out ball, Matfield is known for his exceptional skill at disrupting opposition line-outs, which was a key asset to the Springboks during their triumph in 2007.