#1. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
: Respected French rugby warrior renowned for his ferocious tackling and unyielding determination. Dusautoir’s illustrious career as a flanker saw him lead France with distinction, earning accolades for his defensive prowess and inspirational leadership on the field.
Owens said: “My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.
“He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well.”
