"Scary guy" - Chris Robshaw ranks his five toughest opponents

Tuesday, 14 September 2021 at 11:51

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byRugby Rucker

Harlequins legend Chris Robshaw has named his spectacular dream team of rugby players.

A twice-named Aviva Premiership Player of the Year, Robshaw won 66 England caps and is the second most capped England captain of all time.

Speaking on the Looseheadz Podcast, he selected his dream team from any era of rugby to take on Mars if they invaded the Earth and challenged us to a game of rugby.

Here, Robshaw names his five toughest opponents.

#1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)

Position: Flanker
Honours: New Zealand, 148 caps

Lifting the 2011 World Cup in his backyard was a fitting tribute to one of the greatest ever All Blacks, but he went on to secure true legendary status as he continued for four more years, breaking record after record and uniquely hoisting the Webb Ellis trophy for a second time.

Robshaw said: "The best flanker there's been full stop."

#2. Schalk Burger (South Africa)

Position: Flanker
Honours: South Africa, 86 caps

One of the most physical flankers in the game, he was dubbed a “threshing machine” by former Springboks coach Nick Mallett. Came back from injury and life-threatening illness to enjoy an immense international swansong at the 2015 World Cup.

Robshaw said: "He's a player I was lucky enough to play against when he was at Sarries. As a young lad I actually grew my hair to look like him."

#3. Lawrence Dallaglio (England)

Position: Number 8
Honours: England, 85 caps & British & Irish Lions, three caps

Had it all in his prime - pace, power, aggression, pride and a steely mind-set. A Lions series winner, a World Cup winner and a trophy magnet with Wasps.

Robshaw said: "A phenomenal player for England and a phenomenal character from when I met him. I learned a few harsh lessons playing against him early in my career.

#4. Maro Itoje (England)

Position: Lock
Honours: England, 48 caps & British & Irish Lions, six caps

The England and Saracens forward has the intelligence and athleticism to spoil any form of ball your team might have – be it in the lineout, the breakdown or open phase play. A Rolls Royce of a rugby player.

Robshaw said: "The best second-row I played with. I think he's just going to get better and better. Hated playing against him."

#5. Ma'a Nonu (New Zealand)

Position: Inside-centre
Honours: New Zealand, 103 caps

Known initially more for his braided hair and eyeliner, he added passing and kicking to his raw line-breaking power to become one of the great centres, capping his Test career with that superb World Cup final try.

Robshaw said: "Always quite a scary guy to play against. The best 12 about in my time."