Sir Steve Hansen named the greatest rugby player of all-time, snubs Dan Carter

Tuesday, 28 October 2025 at 21:54

byRugby Rucker

Former All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has paid the ultimate tribute to legendary skipper Richie McCaw, calling him
“the best rugby player the world has ever seen.”

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Speaking in a wide-ranging interview with WalesOnline, Hansen reflected on his time in charge of the All Blacks — a tenure that spanned four Rugby World Cups. He served as an assistant to Graham Henry in 2007 and 2011 before leading New Zealand to glory in 2015 and a third-place finish in 2019.

But it was the 2011 campaign, Hansen says, that defined McCaw’s legacy. The All Blacks’ inspirational captain famously played through the knockout stages with a broken foot, guiding his side to their first World Cup title since 1987.

Hansen revealed that the full extent of McCaw’s injury wasn’t known at the time — and that was by choice.

“Our skipper had two broken bones in his foot. We didn’t know they were broken because we didn’t ask. We didn’t want to know and he didn’t want to say,” Hansen said.

The coach went on to praise McCaw’s extraordinary resilience and mental strength.

“What he did in that tournament was phenomenal. Mentally, he would be the toughest bloke I have had anything to do with in my coaching career.

I think he’s the best rugby player the world has ever seen.”

McCaw retired in 2015 after lifting the Webb Ellis Cup for a second time, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Sir Clive Woodward Names His Top Five Rugby Players of All Time

Sir Clive Woodward — England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning coach — has revealed the five players he believes are the most talented to ever play the game.

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Before guiding England to their historic World Cup triumph, Woodward had a successful business career, working with Xerox in the UK and Australia before launching his own finance company.

As head coach, he transformed England from sixth in the world to number one, winning every trophy available — including the Six Nations Grand Slam and the World Cup.

Drawing from decades of interviews and analysis, here are the five players Woodward has praised more than any others — rugby icons who could walk into any team from any generation.

? 5. Martin Johnson (England)

“A true leader who defined English rugby.”

Martin Johnson was the heartbeat of England’s golden generation and the ultimate captain. Under his leadership, England reached the pinnacle of world rugby, lifting the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

A towering presence both on and off the field, Johnson’s blend of discipline, aggression, and composure made him the ideal lock forward.

Sir Clive Woodward said: “You cannot underestimate the impact he’s had at all levels — club, country, and Lions. Johnno is a world-class player whose leadership is outstanding.”

Johnson’s legacy as a no-nonsense enforcer and inspirational leader ensures he remains one of England’s most respected rugby figures to this day.

☘️ 4. Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)

“A genius with the ball — and a nightmare to defend.”

Brian O’Driscoll, Ireland’s all-time great and long-time captain, was the complete centre. Known for his sharp rugby intellect, dazzling footwork, and fearless defence, O’Driscoll led Ireland through one of their most competitive eras, inspiring a generation of players.

Sir Clive Woodward recalled: “In the Grand Slam game in 2003, we had to man-mark him with three players. That’s how big a threat he was — we needed Wilkinson, Greenwood, and Tindall just to contain him.”

O’Driscoll’s ability to read the game and create magic from nothing made him one of rugby’s most dangerous attackers. With over 140 caps and countless highlights, his influence on Irish rugby remains unmatched.

?? 3. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)

“The man who changed rugby forever.”

Jonah Lomu was more than a rugby player — he was a global phenomenon. Standing 6’5” and weighing over 18 stone, yet capable of running like a sprinter, Lomu redefined what a winger could be. His performances at the 1995 Rugby World Cup — where he bulldozed opponents with terrifying ease — catapulted the sport into mainstream attention.

Woodward said: “He took rugby to a whole new level. There’s rarely one player who dominates an entire World Cup — but Jonah certainly did.”

Lomu’s impact on the game was immense. Even years after his passing, he remains one of rugby’s most iconic and influential figures, inspiring generations of players around the world.

? 2. Jonny Wilkinson (England)

“England’s golden boy and the ultimate professional.”

Few players embody precision, dedication, and calm under pressure like Jonny Wilkinson. His legendary drop goal in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final sealed England’s first and only title — but his influence stretched far beyond that one moment. Known for his relentless work ethic and defensive courage, Wilkinson redefined what it meant to be a fly-half.

Sir Clive Woodward said: “Jonny was special — he scared the opposition. The way he defended and attacked made him a complete player. We were privileged to have him in that team.”

From Newcastle to Toulon, Wilkinson’s professionalism and humility set the standard for generations to come, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in rugby history.

? 1. Gareth Edwards (Wales)

“The most naturally gifted player of all time.”

For Sir Clive Woodward, one name stands above the rest — Welsh legend Gareth Edwards. The dynamic scrum-half was the heartbeat of Wales’ golden era in the 1970s, guiding his nation to multiple Five Nations titles and a reputation for flair-filled, attacking rugby.

Woodward said: “The greatest talent I ever played against was Gareth Edwards. Even in his final season, his class was undiminished — he had a great aura about him.”

Edwards’ vision, agility, and creativity made him the prototype for the modern scrum-half. Revered by fans and players alike, he remains the benchmark for natural rugby talent — the complete player who could change a game in an instant.