3 Lawrence Dallaglio
Lawrence Dallaglio is probably the most decorated number eight in the history of the game. The former England Skipper simply won everything possible in the game: including a World Cup, a Lions tour, World Cup Sevens, Heineken Cup, European Challenge Cup, English Premiership and the English domestic cup. He won a total of 85 caps during an international career that spanned 12 years from 1995 to 2007 while also making three appearances for the British and Irish Lions.
Did you know: Dallaglio was the only player to play every minute during England’s triumphant 2003 World Cup campaign.
2 Sergio Parisse
The 6ft 5in Italian Sergio Parisse was outstanding in the lineout and had the flair and pace across the ground to gain valuable ground when the Azzurri drives forward. Parisse won the first of his 112 caps to date at the age of 18 and aged 31 could still have a few year’s of international rugby still to go. He is set to add to his tally as he Captains Italy at the upcoming World Cup in England.
Did you know: Parisse married Miss France 2006 and Miss Europe 2006 Alexandra Rosenfeld in early 2010.
1 Zinzan Brooke
Topping the list is All Black Zinzan Brooke. 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.