Former England and Harlequins captain Chris Robshaw has retired from rugby union today at the age of 36.
Robshaw had been playing for San Diego Legion in the United States since leaving Quins in the summer of 2020, after 16 years at the club.
He won 66 England caps and was captain in 43 of those international appearances.
Speaking on the Looseheadz Podcast, he selected his dream team from any era of rugby to take on Mars if they invaded the Earth and challenged us to a game of rugby.
Here, Robshaw runs down his five toughest opponents.
Chris Robshaw: My Toughest Opponents
#1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
- Position: Flanker
- Honours: New Zealand, 148 caps
Lifting the 2011 World Cup in his backyard was a fitting tribute to one of the greatest ever All Blacks, but he went on to secure true legendary status as he continued for four more years, breaking record after record and uniquely hoisting the Webb Ellis trophy for a second time.
Robshaw said: "The best flanker there's been full stop."
#2. Schalk Burger (South Africa)
- Position: Flanker
- Honours: South Africa, 86 caps
One of the most physical flankers in the game, he was dubbed a “threshing machine” by former Springboks coach Nick Mallett. Came back from injury and life-threatening illness to enjoy an immense international swansong at the 2015 World Cup.
Robshaw said: "He's a player I was lucky enough to play against when he was at Sarries. As a young lad I actually grew my hair to look like him."
#3. Lawrence Dallaglio (England)
- Position: Number 8
- Honours: England, 85 caps & British & Irish Lions, three caps
Had it all in his prime - pace, power, aggression, pride and a steely mind-set. A Lions series winner, a World Cup winner and a trophy magnet with Wasps.
Robshaw said: "A phenomenal player for England and a phenomenal character from when I met him. I learned a few harsh lessons playing against him early in my career.
#4. Maro Itoje (England)
- Position: Lock
- Honours: England, 48 caps & British & Irish Lions, six caps
The England and Saracens forward has the intelligence and athleticism to spoil any form of ball your team might have – be it in the lineout, the breakdown or open phase play. A Rolls Royce of a rugby player.
Robshaw said: "The best second-row I played with. I think he's just going to get better and better. Hated playing against him."
#5. Ma'a Nonu (New Zealand)
- Position: Inside-centre
- Honours: New Zealand, 103 caps
Known initially more for his braided hair and eyeliner, he added passing and kicking to his raw line-breaking power to become one of the great centres, capping his Test career with that superb World Cup final try.
Robshaw said: "Always quite a scary guy to play against. The best 12 about in my time."
