Sergio Parisse didn’t blink when asked who his toughest opponent was...
Rugby NewsTuesday, 18 February 2025 at 19:30
Italy’s legendary captain Sergio Parisse may have hung up his boots, but his influence on rugby remains strong.
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After retiring at the end of last season, the former Toulon number eight has transitioned seamlessly into a coaching role with the French club while also sharing his insights as a pundit during the 2025 Six Nations.
Parisse, widely regarded as one of the greatest number eights of all time, recently opened up about the toughest players he faced during his illustrious career.
"Everyone knows their body and what they are capable of," Parisse said. "I knew I had the mental and physical strength to finish on my terms – now I’m enjoying the next chapter."
DID YOU KNOW?
Sergio Parisse was born in La Plata, Argentina, to Italian parents, before becoming one of rugby’s most respected captains.
Sergio Parisse's Toughest Opponents
#5. David Pocock (Australia)
With 83 caps across an 11-year career, Pocock was a relentless force on the field and became just as well-known for his work in social justice and environmental activism after retiring.
Parisse said: "Nobody tested me physically as much as Pocock. He was the perfect rugby player."
DID YOU KNOW? Born in Zimbabwe, Pocock moved to Australia as a teenager and became one of the Wallabies'most feared players.
#4. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Known for his ferocious tackling, Dusautoir still holds the record for most tackles in a World Cup match – 38 against New Zealand in 2007.
Parisse said: "Dusautoir has to be considered one of the greats. No matter the occasion, he always brought the same intensity."
DID YOU KNOW? Dusautoir was crowned World Rugby Player of the Year in 2011, only the second Frenchman to ever win the award.
#3. Kieran Read (New Zealand)
Read scored 26 tries during his international career and is the third-most-capped All Black, with 127 tests across an 11-year span.
Parisse said: "I think Kieran Read was underrated compared to some of his teammates. Relentless."
DID YOU KNOW? In the 2020 Queen's Birthday Honours, Read was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to rugby.
#2. Jonny Wilkinson (England)
Wilkinson won 91 caps for England and famously kicked the winning drop goal in extra time during the 2003 World Cup final against Australia. Despite battling injuries, he returned to help England reach the 2007 World Cup final.
Parisse said: "He has something about him that made him different. It's hard to explain."
DID YOU KNOW? Wilkinson's brother, Mark, also played for Newcastle Falcons, making 16 appearances in the Premiership between 2002 and 2005, primarily as a centre.
#1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
McCaw was the first All Black to reach 100 caps and remains one of the most decorated players in rugby history with 148 international appearances. He also equaled the record for most Rugby World Cup appearances alongside Jason Leonard.
Parisse said: "McCaw was an inspirational leader and a world-class operator."
DID YOU KNOW? After retiring, McCaw became a helicopter pilot and was involved in rescue missions following the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake in New Zealand.
You’ll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz
The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.
From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.
Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You’ll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let’s kick off!
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- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
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