Antoine Dupont doesn't hesitate when naming his three toughest opponents

Saturday, 02 November 2024 at 07:30

bySteven Smith

Antoine Dupont is a name synonymous with brilliance in rugby today.

The French scrum-half, often hailed as the best player in the world, has had a glittering career, making waves across the rugby world with his incredible playmaking skills, explosive speed, and laser-accurate passing. But even a player of Dupont's caliber has opponents who make him sit up and think!

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In a recent Q&A, Dupont spilled the beans on who he considers his toughest opponents. When asked about the players he respects and finds challenging, he said,

"There are lots of good players around these days. Beauden Barrett, Faf de Klerk, Owen Farrell to name a few."

The original quote was in French, but even in translation, it’s clear Dupont has a healthy respect for these players. So, let’s break down Dupont’s thoughts on each player and what makes them tick!

Beauden Barrett – New Zealand’s Flying Playmaker

If anyone has tested Dupont’s tactical mastery, it’s Beauden Barrett. This Kiwi fly-half isn’t just fast—he’s got a rugby IQ that’s off the charts. Barrett, known for his lightning-quick decision-making, has been tormenting defenses for years with his knack for finding gaps and creating space. His versatility allows him to shift between fly-half and full-back, giving New Zealand endless options. With over 100 caps and two World Rugby Player of the Year awards, Barrett has cemented himself as one of the sport's modern legends.

Capacity to change a game? Unlimited. Location? Usually at the heart of New Zealand’s most electrifying moments. Barrett has that uncanny ability to go from 0 to 100, making him the ideal opponent to keep Dupont—and any defense—on their toes.

Faf de Klerk – South Africa’s Pocket Rocket

Enter South Africa’s Faf de Klerk, a whirlwind of energy and grit wrapped in a small but mighty package. Standing at 5'7", De Klerk might not be the tallest player on the field, but his impact is massive. Known for his quick ball distribution, fearless defense, and excellent game management, Faf has been a crucial part of South Africa’s game since 2016. He brings a relentless intensity that can disrupt even the best-laid plans—a skill Dupont has witnessed firsthand.

De Klerk’s scrappy style and pinpoint kicking make him a unique challenge for any scrum-half, especially someone of Dupont’s class who thrives on quick ball movement. In 2019, he helped South Africa lift the Rugby World Cup trophy, proving his knack for rising to the occasion.

Faf de Klerk of Sale Sharks during the Gallagher Premiership match between Exeter Chiefs and Sale Sharks at Sandy Park on 6 March 2022. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

Owen Farrell – England’s Fearless Former Leader

Owen Farrell, England's former captain and all-time top point scorer, has long been one of the toughest competitors Dupont has faced. Known for his rock-solid tackling and mental toughness, Farrell brings an unshakeable intensity to the field that can intimidate opponents. He’s not afraid to get physical, and his aggressive defense often puts playmakers like Dupont under heavy pressure.

As captain of England, Farrell won over 100 caps and has led his country to the Rugby World Cup final. His precise kicking, exceptional rugby IQ, and leadership make him a commanding figure who can alter the course of any match.

NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:

Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)

Owens said: "For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.

"But I go for Folau - only just, I should stress - because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.

"It’s a toss of a coin for me... and it’s come down in Folau’s favour."

Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)

Owens said: "How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.

"I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.

"When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem."

Outside-centre: Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)

Owens said: "Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.

"A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch."

Inside-centre: Ma'a Nonu (New Zealand)

Owens said: "He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.

"What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years."

Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)

Owens said: "When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.

"But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.

"He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that."

Fly-half: Dan Carter (New Zealand)

Owens said: "There are lots of outside-halves who have been great, but not one who has done it over so many years like Carter.

"Before the 2015 World Cup, some people said he was past his best and wouldn’t make the New Zealand squad for the tournament.

"But for Carter to come back from injury and play as well as he did then is a sign of a special player."

Scrum-half: Agustin Pichot (Argentina)

Owens said: "I used to love watching Dwayne Peel in his prime as a scrum-half for those few years between 2004-06 with Wales, the Lions and Llanelli. Talented, a great guy, he also has a house just up the road from me!

"But I’ve just plumped for Pichot who was a great player for the Pumas and also a great ambassador for the game of rugby in general.

"Pichot and Felipe Contepomi were the ones who helped transform Argentina into one of the greatest sides in the world. He was an architect behind their march to the World Cup semi-finals in 2007, which set the trend ahead of their excellent showing in the 2015 tournament, too."

Loosehead-prop: Gethin Jenkins (Wales)

Owens said: "He rarely smiles but has been a terrific player at loose-head prop. When I’ve penalised him and he’s smiled, I know I’d got the decision right!

"But, suffice to say, he hasn’t smiled often when I’ve refereed him. Another who has stood the test of time, which speaks volumes about his ability and character."

Hooker: John Smit (South Africa)

Owens said: "He led the Springboks to success at the 2007 World Cup in France and against the 2009 Lions and is probably one of the greatest captains I have dealt with. He’s a good man and was a very good player at hooker."

Springbok Captain, John Smit forcing his way up field with England's, Tom Rees in his way - Photo mandatory by-line: Jan Kruger / Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile: 0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 768 6958 48 - 221108 - SPORT - RUGBY - INTERNATIONAL - INVESTEC CHALLENGE - ENGLAND V SOUTH AFRICA - TWICKENHAM

Tighthead-prop: Phil Vickery (England)

Owens said: "I always had a lot of time for him, found him a decent man, a good player to referee. He wasn’t one of those who would whinge at decisions, he would accept the call and get on with it.

"As a player, at his peak with Wasps during their European runs and with England in 2007, he was a formidable force.

"Just about edges out Carl Hayman, another great player and a pretty honest one as well. When he got it wrong and I penalised him, he would accept it."

Lock: Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)

Owens said: "A man of few words, he does his talking on the field with his actions. Not only is he a brilliant player and a very good captain but I don’t think I have reffed a match where he hasn’t given absolutely everything."

Lock: Paul O'Connell (Ireland)

Owens said: "Quite simply he was just an exceptional leader. I have been in charge of games where he pretty much carried his team, whether it was Munster or Ireland, almost on his back and onto victory."

Paul O'Connell of Ireland seen during the Rugby World Cup Pool D match between Italy v Ireland at The Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on Oct 4th 2015 in London - Photo mandatory by-line: Graeme Truby/Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile:0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 183700120 - SPORT - International Rugby

Blindside-flanker: Thierry Dusautoir (France)

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.

"Also, he was exemplary in the way he conducted himself.

"There were never any complaints from him over refereeing, not even when borderline decisions went against France. When his team were crushed 62-13 by New Zealand during the 2015 World Cup, he wasn’t tempted to blame anyone.

"He acted as a true leader should act."

England's, Toby Flood fall short of the try line and is taken off the field after France's, Thierry Dusautoir landed on him - Photo mandatory by-line: Jan Kruger / Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile: 0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 768 6958 48 - 150309 - SPORT - RUGBY - RBS 6 NATIONS - England v France - Twickenham

Openside-flanker: Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

Owens said: "Even though there’s been David Pocock and others in this position, how can I not go with Richie?

"If anybody had to pick the greatest player in history, it would surely be a difficult choice between him and Gareth Edwards.

"How McCaw managed to put his body on the line and sometimes the wrong side at rucks for so many years at flanker is incredible."

Number 8: Sergio Parisse (Italy)

Owens said: "I’ve been fortunate to have refereed some tremendous No.8s during my career but Sergio is tops. He’s such a talented player and rarely has a bad game.

"Maybe there’s a tendency to try and do too much because he’s been in an Italy or Stade Francais team which hasn’t been at its best, but he’s been extraordinary."

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