Dan Carter, Jamie Heaslip and Richie McCaw agreed that Springbok hard man Schalk Burger was the toughest opponent they faced during their stellar careers.
But who did he rate as the toughest? Find out below.
SCHALK BURGER: TOUGHEST OPPONENTS:
#4. Phil Waugh (Australia)
Despite being an international quality openside, Waugh had to spend a large part of his Test career as back-up to George Smith, who was considered a more all-round package. At times, however, Smith was moved to other positions to accommodate Waugh’s good form.
DID YOU KNOW? In December 2013 Waugh was a crew member aboard racing supermaxi yacht
#3. Lewis Moody (England)
DID YOU KNOW? In August 2012 Moody highlighted his battle with
ulcerative colitis and the impact this had on his training
#2. George Smith (Australia)
The scourge of the Lions at the age of 20 and more than 100 caps to his name for the Wallabies before he was 30. An absolute pest and nuisance at the breakdown.
DID YOU KNOW? He was easily recognised on the field by his
dreadlocked hair style until late 2006 – when he decided to sell his dreadlocks for charity
#1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
Complementing his natural prowess over the ball, McCaw worked and worked at his game, adding handling skills and dynamic running to turn himself into the complete openside.
Unflinchingly brave, he has remained a quite outstanding exponent at the breakdown throughout the career, while also possessing the athleticism and footballing ability to serve as the classic link man and the ball carrying dynamism to consistently break the line. He had the lot.
DID YOU KNOW? He flew several rescue and reconnaissance missions following the
2016 Kaikoura earthquake that struck the South Island
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