The five greatest cross-code rugby league and union players ever (Ranked 5-1)

As Crichton begins his own journey, he’ll be hoping to follow in the footsteps of some true cross-code greats. Here are the greatest players to have succeeded in both league and union.

Power and athleticism defined one of the most intimidating wingers to cross between rugby league and union. Standing out for his ability in the air and with ball in hand, Lote Tuqiri first made his reputation in rugby league with the Brisbane Broncos, Queensland Maroons, and at international level for both Fiji and Australia.

When he switched to rugby union in 2002, expectations were high. He met them quickly, becoming a key figure for the NSW Waratahs and earning 67 caps for the Wallabies. His most memorable union moment came on the sport’s biggest stage, scoring Australia’s only try in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final against England.

Although his career is most fondly remembered in league, Tuqiri showed he could compete at the elite level in both codes. Returning to league late in his career, he played a part in South Sydney’s historic NRL premiership triumph, bringing his professional journey to a fitting close.

Few forwards in rugby history can match the durability and winning pedigree of Brad Thorn. His professional career began in rugby league, where he became a mainstay of the Brisbane Broncos across two spells and a reliable presence for Queensland in State of Origin.

A move to rugby union in his mid-20s could have shortened his peak, but instead it elevated his legacy. Transitioning into a world-class lock, Thorn featured for elite clubs such as the Crusaders, Leinster and Leicester Tigers. Along the way, he achieved a feat no one else had managed, winning a Rugby World Cup, Super Rugby title and the Heineken Cup.

Internationally, he earned 59 caps for New Zealand and was part of the All Blacks side that lifted the 2011 World Cup. Playing professionally into his forties, Thorn’s career stands as a benchmark for longevity and success across both codes.

One of England’s most instinctive try-scorers began his career far from the Premiership spotlight, growing up in rugby league’s Wigan heartland. Chris Ashton emerged through Wigan Warriors, earning England caps in league before making the switch to union in 2007.

That decision transformed his career. A try on debut for Northampton Saints set the tone for what followed, as Ashton went on to star in the Premiership and Top 14 with clubs including Saracens, Toulon and Leicester Tigers. His league background shaped his game, particularly his ability to anticipate breaks and arrive in support.

Ashton’s most famous moment came against Australia in 2010, when he scored a length-of-the-field try at Twickenham. He earned 40 England caps, finished joint top try-scorer at the 2011 World Cup, and retired as Premiership Rugby’s all-time leading try-scorer.

Speed, footwork and fearless attacking made this dual-code star one of the most electrifying players English rugby has ever seen. Jason Robinson first rose to prominence in rugby league with Wigan Warriors, where his ability to beat defenders turned him into a household name and earned international honours.

The switch to rugby union in 2000 proved transformative. Robinson became a key figure for Sale Sharks, helping them secure the only Premiership title in the club’s history. His attacking threat carried over seamlessly, whether deployed on the wing or at fullback.

At international level, he played a pivotal role in England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup victory and later represented the British & Irish Lions. With 51 England caps and the distinction of becoming the first Black man to captain the national side, Robinson’s rise from league convert to union legend remains one of the game’s most compelling stories.

Versatility at the highest level has rarely been displayed so convincingly. Beginning his professional journey in rugby league, Sonny Bill Williams quickly established himself as a star with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and the New Zealand national side.

His first move to rugby union in 2010 was met with controversy, yet his performances soon justified the decision. Excelling as a centre for Toulon and later the All Blacks, Williams became a central figure in New Zealand’s World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015. His ability to switch codes multiple times without a drop in impact remains unmatched.

Beyond 15-a-side rugby, Williams represented New Zealand in sevens at the Olympics and even pursued a successful professional boxing career. Few athletes have dominated across so many formats, and that unique adaptability places him firmly at the top of any list of cross-code greats.