The best second-rows of all time (Ranked 5-1)

They rule the lineout, secure the ruck, set the tempo, and form the backbone of the pack.

Here, we spotlight the five players who have defined the role in the 21st century—leaders, enforcers, and silent giants whose command of the engine room has shaped championships, ignited rivalries, and left an indelible mark on the game.

Masterful line-out control and brilliant rugby intelligence made Victor Matfield the architect of South Africa’s forward success. With the Bulls he formed a devastating partnership with Bakkies Botha, translating that dominance onto the international stage. His ability to dismantle opposition set pieces became central to the Springboks’ 2007 World Cup triumph, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

Matfield captained sides that broke significant records, including a historic win over the All Blacks in New Zealand in 2008. Though he initially retired after the 2011 World Cup, he returned to add even more caps to an already remarkable career. Calm, athletic and endlessly influential, Matfield stands among the most complete locks ever to play the game.

A rare blend of size, skill and intelligence propelled Brodie Retallick into the All Blacks’ engine room almost instantly after his 2012 debut. His early success with the Chiefs, including back-to-back Super Rugby titles, set the tone for a career defined by excellence. Retallick passed 100 caps for New Zealand, anchoring their 2015 World Cup victory and consistently delivering world-class performances.

A 2014 World Player of the Year award—earned as the youngest ever—validated his global impact. Comparisons to the legendary Colin Meads became common as he redefined expectations of a modern lock: mobile, skilful and relentless. Even while playing in Japan later in his career, his place among the greats was already secure.

Few locks have embodied authority and versatility like John Eales, whose leadership defined Australian rugby throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Debuting in 1991, he earned 86 caps, captaining 55, and became a cornerstone of two Rugby World Cup victories (1991, 1999). Renowned for his lineout mastery, physical presence, and rare goal-kicking ability, Eales combined intelligence, skill, and composure to dominate at the highest level.

Teammates relied on his calm leadership; opponents struggled to match his all-around impact. Beyond the trophies, his influence on the Wallabies’ culture and the professionalization of the sport was profound. With two World Cups, a Tri-Nations title, and a reputation for strategic brilliance and unshakable poise, Eales stands as one of rugby’s greatest locks of all time.

Few players command the same aura as Eben Etzebeth, whose physical presence has shaped Springbok rugby for more than a decade. Since debuting in 2012, he has become South Africa’s most-capped player and one of the sport’s most intimidating enforcers. His role in the 2019 and 2023 World Cup triumphs showcased a fearsome blend of power, aggression and surprising athleticism.

Teammates trust him implicitly; opponents brace for impact. Though his career has carried controversy—including a recent 12-week suspension—his influence on South Africa’s pack is undeniable. With over 140 caps, two world titles and a reputation carved from countless collisions, Etzebeth stands as one of the modern era’s most formidable locks.

Commanding presence and unrivalled leadership made Martin Johnson the ultimate English lock. Across 16 seasons with Leicester and England, he became the sport’s gold standard for authority and composure. His captaincy defined an era: Grand Slam success, European titles with Leicester and, most memorably, the 2003 Rugby World Cup triumph. Johnson also became the first player to lead the Lions on two tours, reinforcing his reputation as rugby’s respected general.

His 84 caps were marked by brutal physicality and sharp tactical instincts, while at club level he delivered four straight Premiers