Peter O'Mahony faced some of rugby’s biggest names during his career.
The Ireland legend played at the top level for more than a decade. He starred for Munster, Ireland and the British & Irish Lions.
But three players stood out when he was asked to name his toughest opponents.
All three played for the All Blacks.
O'Mahony picked Kieran Read, Richie McCaw and Jerry Collins. Each caused him problems for very different reasons.
Here are his three toughest opponents.
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#3. Kieran Read
Position: Number 8New Zealand caps: 127
O'Mahony believed Read was one of the most skilful players he ever faced.
He said: “Read was probably the most skilful I’ve come up against, whether it was backs or forwards – he’d be well up there as well.”
Read was a key player for the All Blacks for more than a decade.
He could carry, pass and win the ball at the breakdown. He was also a major leader for New Zealand.
Read helped the All Blacks win the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and 2015.
DID YOU KNOW?
Read was also a talented cricketer when he was younger.
He played at a high level before choosing to focus on rugby.
#2. Richie McCaw
Position: FlankerNew Zealand caps: 148
McCaw was more than just a tough opponent for O'Mahony. He was also one of his heroes.
O'Mahony said: “One of my heroes. I feel very privileged to have played against him. The All Blacks have never replaced him.”
McCaw won 148 caps for New Zealand.
He captained the All Blacks to Rugby World Cup glory in both 2011 and 2015.
The flanker was famous for his work at the breakdown. His fitness and leadership also made him difficult to play against.
DID YOU KNOW?
McCaw has Scottish roots and learned how to play the bagpipes.
#1. Jerry Collins
Position: FlankerNew Zealand caps: 48
Jerry Collins made a huge impression on O'Mahony early in his career.
O'Mahony faced Collins when the All Blacks great was playing for Ospreys.
He said: “In games, I remember that Ospreys team when I first started off. They had a back-row of Jerry Collins, [Filo] Tiatia, and Marty Holah.”
O'Mahony added: “I was just out of my teens. It was a nasty enough back-row to come up against.”
His description of Collins summed him up perfectly.
“Collins was a vicious bastard but a real gentleman off the pitch.”
Collins won 48 caps for the All Blacks.
He became famous for his huge tackles and physical style. However, those who knew him also spoke warmly about the man away from rugby.
DID YOU KNOW?
Collins was related to former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga.
Tragic death
Collins died in a car crash in France in June 2015.
His partner, Alana Madill, also died in the crash.
Their baby daughter Ayla survived despite suffering serious injuries.
Collins was just 34.
