"Remarkable" - Jonny Wilkinson didn’t hesitate when naming his ‘five’ toughest rugby opponents

His illustrious career saw him represent England internationally and achieve remarkable success. One of his crowning achievements came in 2003 when he famously kicked the drop goal that secured England's victory in the Rugby World Cup, a moment etched in rugby history.

Wilkinson's exceptional skills weren't limited to his kicking prowess; his tactical astuteness and leadership qualities made him a formidable force on the field. His commitment to self-improvement and meticulous preparation set him apart as a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.

Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, Wilkinson displayed unwavering determination, continually striving for excellence. His resilience and dedication earned him the admiration of fans and peers alike, solidifying his status as one of rugby's greatest ever players.

Check out his five toughest opponents below.

A veteran of four World Cups, Brian O’Driscoll made a name for himself on the World Stage for his unwavering consistency in defence and dazzling skills in attack.

O’Driscoll is the all-time Irish try scorer and has led his country more times than any other player.

Wilkinson said: “The ability to change the game in a second, a heartbeat, with his movement, with his skill, his game reading but also his leadership.”

New Zealand’s talismanic captain Richie McCaw led his country to World Cup glory in 2011 and 2015.

Wilkinson said: “The guy is quite a remarkable rugby legend and deserves to be so. No Rugby World cup team would be complete without him.”

Bakkies Botha made his World Cup debut in 2003, scoring three tries for South Africa.

His second Rugby World Cup appearance followed in 2007 where he played a pivotal role in the Springboks' charge to the sport's biggest prize.

Wilkinson said: “Someone incredibly fierce but very very down to earth” and “at times he’s exactly what a team needs,” according to Wilkinson.

Wilkinson wrote: “A guy that knew how to win, knew how to play the game. His body language suggested he didn’t really know how to fail or what mistakes were, what under performance was.”

One of the most recognisable characters in World Rugby and a man who sparked fear in the eyes of opposition defences.

Jonah Lomu burst on to the scene at the 1995 with his eye catching performances and devastating runs, most recognisably against England in the 1995 tournament, where he steamrollered his way to 4 tries.

Lomu scored seven tries during the 1995 World Cup and added a further eight in 1999, making him the top try scorer of the tournament.

Wilkinson wrote: “The guy is quite a remarkable rugby legend and deserves to be so. No toughest opponents list would be complete without him.”