Steve Hansen snubbed Dan Carter when naming the greatest rugby player of all-time

Monday, 30 March 2026 at 20:19

byRugby Rucker

Legendary All BLacks boss Steve Hansen has delivered the ultimate salute to All Blacks icon Richie McCaw — hailing him as “the greatest rugby player the game has ever seen.”

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In a wide-ranging chat with WalesOnline, Hansen looked back on a remarkable spell at the helm of New Zealand.

His involvement stretched across four Rugby World Cups, first as Graham Henry’s assistant in 2007 and 2011, before stepping up to lead the side 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.

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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.

QUIZ: Can you name these retro All Blacks?

Renowned for their international dominance, the All Blacks are widely regarded as one of the most successful teams in sporting history. From legendary captains to game-changing backs and fearless forwards, generations of players have built a legacy that few can match.

With Rugby World Cup triumphs in 1987, 2011, and 2015—and as the first nation to ever retain the title—the All Blacks’ past is packed with iconic moments and unforgettable names.

Now it’s your turn: can you recognise these retro All Blacks players? Test your knowledge of the legends who shaped the black jersey.

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