Jonny Wilkinson has picked out the three stadiums he played in that produced the best atmosphere, and surprisingly left out his beloved Twickenham.
The Premiership legend played for Newcastle Falcons from 1997-09, scoring 2,049 goals for his first professional club.
However, the home of the Falcons didn’t make Wilkinson’s top three either in terms of atmosphere.
See which four stadiums he selected below during a Q&A back in 2017.
#3. Stade de France (France)
Perhaps not the best situated stadium, but it sure has a great view. It's atmosphere can be a help and a hindrance for Les Bleus.
When France are on the front foot, it can generate a great atmosphere but it can also inspire the opposition when they’re not.
Wilkinson said: "‘Whenever I played there on every occasion, the atmosphere was fantastic."
#2. Principality Stadium (Wales)
The Old Cardiff Arms Park was great but everything about the Millennium Stadium – renamed later as the Principality Stadium – is nigh on perfect save from some early teething problems with the turf which can struggle a little when the roof is on for prolonged periods.
Wilkinson said: "I always felt Cardiff was an incredible stadium because of the passion and the knowledge the Wales fans have. I also won a Heineken Cup there, which I'll never forget."
#1. Stadium Australia (Australia)
Its capacity is 84, 000 and this makes it the biggest venue on this list
There are usually a minimum of two rugby union tests played at Stadium Australia over the course of a year, with one often being a tour match. Back in 2003, the stadium hosted seven Rugby World Cup games under its former guise of the Telstra Stadium.
Wilkinson said: "‘The best atmosphere I ever played in was in an England shirt was in Australia for that Rugby World Cup final, it was electric,
"Probably those three stadiums, they were brilliant."
