#SECOND-ROW:
4. Martin Johnson (Second row, England, 84 caps)
Carling wrote: “Inspirational leader, formidable player, competitive in every situation. The example he set in tight situations led the way. He didn’t ask you for effort or even have to demand it, his very presence made you want to live up to his high standards. He was indispensable to England in the World Cup win. He made it happen.”
5. Colin Meads (Second row, New Zealand, 55 caps)
Carling wrote: ‘Pinetree’ – this hard man was the foundation which the success of the All Blacks was built around.
#BACK-ROW:
6 .Richard Hill (Flanker, England, 71 caps)
Carling wrote: “I’m a huge fan of his. Great work rate, great lines, great at reading the game. Quiet, unassuming demeanour but was always vital.”
7. Michael Jones (Openside, New Zealand, 55 caps)
Like Zinzan Brooke for ball skills. He also had great acceleration and pace and could have played for most international midfields. Yet he was a No 7 who read the game brilliantly and was devastating in defence. He was the first multi talented openside. Up until he played it was unheard of to be such a complete player in this position.
8. Zinzan Brooke (No 8, New Zealand, 58 caps)
Carling wrote: “A No 8 who could drop a goal from the 10-metre line. For a forward his skills were outrageous. As comfortable playing sevens as 15s, he had better kicking and handling skills than some fly-halves playing international rugby. You align that with his strength and ability as a forward to read the game – he was unique.”