Henry Pollock Ranks His Top 5 Flankers — And Fans Are Furious

In a recent blind ranking of the greatest flankers of all time, Henry Pollock made some bold calls that surprised plenty of fans. Notably, he left out legends like Jerome Kaino and Lawrence Dallaglio from his top five altogether.

Instead, Pollock backed more recent figures, including Peter O'Mahony and Courtney Lawes — a decision that sparked debate across the rugby world.

It’s worth keeping in mind, though, that Pollock is just 21. Players like Lawes and O’Mahony would have been the standout back-rowers during his formative years, which likely shaped his view of the game.

The rankings came off the back of a huge breakthrough year for Pollock, who has impressed on the international stage with England and caught attention within the British & Irish Lions setup. Known for his explosive carrying, sharp work at the breakdown, and relentless engine, he’s widely tipped as a future cornerstone of the back row.

Off the pitch, his rise has been just as rapid. His growing profile recently saw him link up with Eddie Hearn, highlighting his appeal beyond traditional rugby audiences.

His blind ranking, done with Premier Sports, mixed modern stars with all-time greats — and as his selections showed, his perspective is very much shaped by the era he grew up watching.

One of the most complete forwards of the modern era, Savea blends explosive power with elite handling and pace rarely seen in a flanker.

A standout for the All Blacks, he has consistently delivered in high-pressure moments, evolving from an impact player into a world-leading figure and national captain. His ability to dominate collisions, win turnovers, and link play makes him a prototype for the modern back-rower.

O’Mahony is the embodiment of traditional openside grit, built on relentless physicality and an unshakeable competitive edge.

A key leader for Ireland and Munster, he has built his reputation on breakdown excellence, aerial ability at the lineout, and an uncanny knack for disrupting opposition rhythm. His influence often goes beyond statistics, setting the emotional tone for his side.

A uniquely versatile forward, Lawes has excelled at both flanker and lock at the highest level. Famed for his bone-rattling tackles and defensive organisation, he has also developed a subtle all-court game, contributing as a carrier and lineout option.

A British & Irish Lion and England stalwart, his longevity and adaptability have been key to his elite status.

Kolisi’s legacy is defined by both excellence and leadership. As captain of South Africa’s World Cup-winning sides, he has led with composure, physicality, and tactical intelligence.

On the field, he combines strong carrying, defensive work rate, and breakdown presence, while off it, he stands as one of rugby’s most influential figures globally.

Widely regarded as the greatest flanker in rugby history, McCaw set the benchmark for consistency, intelligence, and competitive edge.

The long-time All Blacks captain led his country to back-to-back World Cup triumphs and amassed over 140 Test caps. A master of the breakdown and a relentless competitor, his influence on games—and on the position itself—remains unmatched.