Fans can't believe the Radio Times' top 10 rugby players of all-time list

Rugby News

by Rugby Rucker

Wednesday, 19 February 2025 at 07:59

byRugby Rucker

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Warning: This list will absolutely ruin your day.

Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

The Radio Times have released their list of the top 10 rugby union players of all time—and, well, let's just say it's "interesting."

Before you rage-message us or furiously drop this in your mates' WhatsApp group, remember: we didn't make this list. We're just the messenger. Take a deep breath and TRY (seriously, try) to enjoy Radio Times' top 10 rugby players of all time.

#10. Antoine Dupont (France)

"Le Magnifique"

Sure, he's a human highlight reel and the darling of French rugby, but is it a bit soon to crown him an all-time great? The Radio Times doesn't think so:

"We know what you’re thinking – it’s far too early to add the award-winning French scrum-half to this greatest of all time list. But the Les Bleus’ talisman is undoubtedly leading one of the most exciting teams on the international stage, all while helping to change the perception of the sport."

Bio: Born in 1996, Dupont is already one of the most electrifying scrum-halves in rugby history. With multiple Six Nations titles and a World Rugby Player of the Year award, he’s redefining the modern No. 9.

#9. Sergio Parisse (Italy)

"The Eternal Gladiator"

At 39 years old and still bossing it in the Top 14, Parisse is basically rugby's version of an unkillable movie villain. Here's what Radio Times had to say:

"With a career spanning over twenty years and five Rugby World Cups, the Italian giant is the most-capped player in Guinness Six Nations history - and is still playing for Top 14 team Toulon today."

Bio: Born in Argentina but representing Italy, Parisse has over 140 caps and is known for his leadership and athleticism. A true legend of the game.

#8. Bryan Habana (South Africa)

"The Lightning Bolt"

Blink, and you'll miss him. Habana didn't just run fast—he rewrote try-scoring history. Radio Times sings his praises:

"The winger's total caps exceeded the 100 mark across his illustrious 12-year international career, dotting down 67 tries. He also famously equalled Jonah Lomu's record for the highest number of tries scored at Rugby World Cups (15)."

Bio: One of the fastest men in rugby, Habana was pivotal in South Africa's 2007 World Cup win. His blistering pace made him a defensive nightmare.

#7. Gareth Edwards (Wales)

"The Welsh Wizard"

Scored the greatest try of all time and still made it look like a casual Sunday stroll. Radio Times remembers his magic:

"A legendary player in Welsh rugby history, Edwards led a formidable national team which largely dominated the Northern hemisphere. He's best known for what is considered one of rugby's greatest-ever tries for the Barbarians against New Zealand at Cardiff Arms Park back in 1973."

Bio: Edwards, born in 1947, is widely regarded as the greatest Welsh player ever. His vision and athleticism defined an era.

#6. Martin Johnson (England)

"The Iron Giant"

Built like a brick wall, led like a king. Johnson was England's ultimate enforcer. Radio Times gushes over his legacy:

"Best known for captaining the dominant 2003 England side to Rugby World Cup glory, the 6ft 7 towering skipper commanded a real presence on the pitch. He also captained the Leicester Tigers to four successive Premiership titles."

Bio: England’s World Cup-winning captain in 2003, Johnson was feared for his physicality and tactical mind.

#5. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)

"The Irish Magician"

A human cheat code with footwork from the gods. Radio Times knows he was special:

"The hugely talented centre was a near unstoppable force who scored some of the most incredible tries. His offloads, interceptions and dummy passes were also a real sight to behold, with his 2009 grand slam triumph proving one of his most magical moments."

Bio: O'Driscoll is Ireland’s most-capped player, known for his skill and leadership. He captained the British & Irish Lions in 2005.

#4. Jonny Wilkinson (England)

"Mr. Clutch"

Ice in his veins. That 2003 World Cup-winning drop goal still gives England fans goosebumps. Radio Times pays tribute:

"His iconic last-gasp drop goal saw him clinch the win for England against Australia in the historic 2003 Rugby World Cup, inspiring a whole generation. He also holds numerous world records, including the most drop goals in an international career (36)."

Bio: Known for his precision kicking and mental toughness, Wilkinson’s drop goal won England their only Rugby World Cup.

#3. Dan Carter (New Zealand)

"The Points Machine"

If scoring points were an Olympic sport, Dan Carter would have all the gold medals. Radio Times breaks down his dominance:

"During his time with the dominant All Black side, Carter became the leading points scorer in international rugby, totalling 1598 points and 112 caps."

Bio: Carter’s tactical brilliance and scoring prowess earned him three World Rugby Player of the Year awards.

#2. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

"Captain Fantastic"

Two World Cups, countless bruises, and the eternal respect of rugby fans everywhere. Here's what Radio Times had to say:

"The illustrious flanker’s record-breaking 14-year career truly illustrates his influential status as the most decorated All Black captain."

Bio: McCaw redefined openside flanker play and is the most successful captain in rugby history.

#1. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)

"The Human Freight Train"

The man who made grown men look like tackling dummies. Radio Times bows down to the king:

"Throughout his international career, his intense physicality and impressive speed led to a total of 63 caps and 37 tries."

Bio: Lomu changed rugby forever with his power and speed, becoming the first global superstar of the sport.

UPDATED: Foreign-born players in the 2025 Six Nations

The following breakdown, based on data compiled by Americas Rugby News, examines the composition of various national teams, shedding light on the number of foreign-born players and how they qualify for their respective squads.

This international blend underlines rugby’s global nature, with some nations leaning on overseas-born talent more than others. Ahead of round two, we've broken down the squads – and Scotland lead the way by a mile when it comes to foreign-born players.