Ireland, Munster and Lions legend Paul O'Connell has ranked his five toughest opponents from his incredible rugby career.
#1. Victor Matfield
- Position: Lock
- Country: South Africa
- Caps: 127
O'Connell said: "I tried not to fear any opponent, but any international second-row will tell you that Matfield had the ability to destroy your lineout. He's the best lineout operator I played against. He very rarely made any mistakes."
Victor Matfield of South Africa wins the ball against Tom Wood of England at the line out - Photo mandatory by-line: Gareth Davies/Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile:0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 768 6958 48 - 15/11/2014 - SPORT - QBE Internationals - RUGBY UNION - England v South Africa - Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London, England
#2. Jonny Wilkinson
- Position: Fly-half
- Country: England
- Caps: 91
O'Connell said: "I played against him when he was with Toulon at the end of my career, and his ability to punish you with drop-goals, with his penalties, with his territory kicking game, it was so hard to get a foothold in his game. He could beat better teams almost on his own."
#3. Martin Johnson
- Position: Lock
- Country: England
- Caps: 83
O'Connell said: "He had a presence. He was a fabulous player, absolutely someone to be admired."
#4. Jerry Collins
- Position: Flanker
- Country: New Zealand
- Caps: 48
#5. Bakkies Botha
- Position: Lock
- Country: South Africa
- Caps: 85
DID YOU KNOW? Botha is regularly listed in 'greatest ever' sides, and coach Bernard Laporte said he was the greatest player he ever coached
