“Just look at him, he’s 17 odd-stone” – Danny Care picks the players he hated facing most

It's fair to say, it's a sensational selection from the playmaker.

Nonu, a powerhouse New Zealand rugby player, is recognized for his strength, speed, and agility on the field. This formidable center possesses an exceptional ability to break through defenses and create scoring opportunities. Nonu's illustrious career includes multiple Rugby World Cup triumphs with the All Blacks.

CARE SAID: "I’ve played against Ma’a quite a few times. Firstly, he’s such a handful to rein in. Just look at him, he's 17 odd-stone and unbelievably powerful but he’s so much more than just a crash ball merchant.

"He really worked on his offloading game and he reads the ball well. He’s a real specimen and will happily run over you all day but off the pitch, he’s really nice guy, the first to shake your hand and buy you a beer. He’s a great lad.

"I’d love to be his size for a couple of games, it would be a lot of fun.”

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Wilkinson, a former English rugby union player, is renowned for his precision and accuracy in the game. As a fly-half, he played a crucial role in England's 2003 Rugby World Cup victory. Wilkinson's unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence have cemented his status as a rugby legend.

CARE SAID: “What can I say? There’s no doubt he was one of the world’s best players so to play with him was a privilege. 

"I was quite young when I was in the England set-up with him and as you’d expect, he’s a really decent guy, a real gent. He’s so good with the players coming through, helping them settle into the squad.

"He’s done everything and won everything, Heineken Cup, World Cup, you name it. Even now he’s still one of the best around, yet he’s still so humble and hard-working. I can’t give him enough praise.

"He’s not only idolized in England but by players all over the world and that shows what a special player he is.”

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O'Driscoll, an Irish rugby icon, captivated fans with his exceptional skills and leadership qualities. This versatile center was known for his elusive runs, strategic awareness, and outstanding defensive abilities. O'Driscoll's illustrious career spanned over a decade and he remains a revered figure in Irish rugby.

CARE SAID: “Brian is probably the most talented player I’ve ever played against. He is a game winner, pure and simple. If you watch him play, he has touches of class no other players have.

"Like all great players, he reads the game well and if you watch him in midfield, his appreciation of space and ability to manipulate the defenders to create chances is so impressive. He also has an effective kicking game with little grubbers behind the defence and all the flicks and wrapround passes.

"I remember the one that set Simon Zebo up for a try against Wales was just magic. What a wonderful career he had.”

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Marshall, a former New Zealand scrum-half, brought immense energy and tenacity to the game. His lightning-quick passes, tactical acumen, and relentless work rate made him a formidable opponent. Marshall's experience and expertise garnered numerous accolades throughout his career, establishing him as a revered figure in rugby circles.

CARE SAID: “Justin was a massive role model and hero of mine growing up watching him play for New Zealand so I was chuffed to work with him for a short while at Leeds before moving down south.

"I learnt so much just watching him in training, the way he created space for other players, how he got across defenders. He saw gaps just by looking at people’s eyes, to see if they were not covering him. He was also very vocal, a great controller of the game and loved to attack.

"Like all good scrum-halves, he backed himself and liked the ball in hand so he could make things happen.”

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