Springbok legend Bakkies Botha built a reputation as one of the most intimidating rugby players of his generation.
But even the South African enforcer admitted there was one opponent who could be particularly daunting to face.
Bakkies Botha, who won 85 caps for the Springboks and lifted the 2007 Rugby World Cup, came up against some of the greatest forwards the sport has seen.
When discussing the toughest opponents of his career, he singled out Ireland and British & Irish Lions legend Paul O’Connell.
“He’s a world-class player and it’s always great to play against world-class opposition,” Botha said.
Join our Instagram broadcast channel to get rugby news straight to your phone.
“A phenomenal leader and player. He brought something to a team that’s special. A scary opponent at times.”
O’Connell won 108 caps for Ireland and appeared in seven Tests across three British & Irish Lions tours.
The lock also captained the Lions during their famous 2009 tour of South Africa, putting him directly up against Botha and the formidable Springbok pack.
However, O’Connell wasn't the only player to earn huge respect from the South African.
Alun Wyn Jones
Bakkies Botha also enjoyed several physical battles with Wales great Alun Wyn Jones, who became the most-capped men's international rugby player of all time.
“I like Alun-Wyn Jones, he’s a good fighter,” Botha said.
“We had some epic battles down the years and I have a lot of respect for what he's gone onto achieve.”
Jones returned the compliment when discussing the Springbok.
“He revelled in it didn't he. Physically he has to be up there,” he said.
“Let's just say he was able to keep the tradition going of the hardest of South African second rows.”
Richie McCaw
Perhaps Botha's biggest compliment, however, was reserved for former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw.
“They were always the hardest opponents we faced and there was no better player than Richie McCaw that I came up against,” Botha said.
“My role was clear when playing against them: make the breakdown brutal.
“If McCaw or any of the New Zealand boys had to take a moment to look out for me, then I knew I was winning.
“When I played them, I always wanted them to know I was coming for them.”
Bakkies Botha added that former Springbok coach Jake White once gave him the ultimate compliment, telling the lock he could see “fear in their eyes” during a match.
