10 Jonny Wilkinson (England)
They said: “He’s also been one of the great match winners of the era and one of the game’s greatest ever accumulators of points.
“In fact, only Dan Carter has scored more in Test rugby, with Wilkinson having garnered 1,246 during his 97 caps for England and the Lions. His finest hour, of course, came in 2003, when he slotted the drop goal that won the World Cup.
“The fact he landed it with his weaker right foot speaks volumes for his hours and hours of diligent practice. Bowed out on a high, earning two more trophies with Toulon.”
9 John Eales (Australia)
8 Shane Williams (Wales)
7 Tim Horan (Australia)
6 Sergio Parisse (Italy)
5 Joost van der Westhuizen (South Africa)
4 Jonah Lomu (New Zealand
3 Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
He said: “Ireland’s record try scorer with 46 touchdowns, O’Driscoll also led his country more times than any other player and his brilliant defensive qualities and dazzling attacking skills made him a threat all over the field.”
2 Dan Carter (New Zealand)
They said: “The greatest back of the professional era, his record speaks for itself. Way out in front as the leading points scorer in international rugby history, with 1,598 points from his 112 caps. Throw in a further 1,708 points for the Crusaders and the fly-half’s impact on the game cannot be emphasised enough.”
1 Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
They said: “Add to that his leadership and you have the perfect package. Lifting the 2011 World Cup in his backyard was a fitting tribute to one of the greatest ever All Blacks, but he went on to secure true legendary status as he continued for four more years, breaking record after record and uniquely hoisting the Webb Ellis trophy for a second time.”
