The ultimate all-time world XV: Picked by 20 legends of the game - Page 2 of 6 - Ruck

The ultimate all-time world XV: Picked by 20 legends of the game

CENTRES:

OUTSIDE-CENTRE: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)

Neil Back: “Pace, great feet and fearless, but above all humble as best demonstrated in his non-selection for the final Test for the Lions in 2013.”

Sir Ian McGeechan: “His ability to get back on his feet after tackling to compete for the ball was extraordinary, and ensured he always had an impact on the game, whatever type of game it was. He was such a natural talent.”

Jonny Wilkinson: “The ability to change the game in a second, a heartbeat, with his movement, with his skill, his game reading but also his leadership.”

Nigel Owens: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader.


INSIDE-CENTRE: Phillipe Sella (France)

Sir Ian McGeechan: “Sella and O’Driscoll were powerful men. They could stop a forward in his tracks. I think as a pair they would dominate any midfield and I like the thought of them together.”

David Campese: “Epitome of French flair. Excellent link between the inside and outside backs.”

Martin Johnson: “I used to watch him as a kid on TV and think he was brilliant; and then ten years later I played against him and he was still brilliant. He still looks as if he could play for France today. One of the best backs I’ve ever seen. If you hit him it was like running into concrete.”

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