15 Christian Cullen
A real athlete and an attacking threat. It looked like he was gliding when he ran, and he evaded defenders without losing speed. Potent on the counterattack.
14 Joe Roff
A highly skilled player and Joe had an eye for a gap. He was always aware and understood how angles of running lines and timing can manipulate the defensive line.
13 Brian O’Driscoll
An explosive runner who was a real attacking threat, and he didn’t shy away from making big hits on defence.
12 Ma’a Nonu
A big, powerful ball-carrier who always got over the gain line, and for someone with such a large frame he also had the ability to use footwork to beat defenders.
11 Jonah Lomu
An athlete as big and strong as he was is rare, and his speed and power were unbelievable. Who can forget the 1995 World Cup against England where he was unstoppable?
10 Henry Honiball
An uncompromising player who just got on with the work at hand. You just knew not to run in his channel because of his defensive capabilities. He was someone who played flat on the gain line and always asked questions of the defence.
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9 Joost van der Westhuizen
An abrasive, in-your-face player who never stood back for anyone on the rugby field. He had the ability to change a game on his own.
8 Zinzan Brooke
He had all the skills needed for the modern-day No 8 – a powerful runner with great linking skills and he could even drop-kick if needed!
7 Ruben Kruger
Ruben was a really tough competitor with an unbelievable work rate.
6 George Smith
He changed the game from a defensive point of view, frustrating attacking teams with his ability to poach balls at the breakdown.
5 John Eales
He was a great leader for Australian rugby. Great aerial skills and could kick to poles from long range as well.
4 Mark Andrews
A very abrasive player and he enjoyed hitting rucks. Mark did not shy away from the physical confrontation the game demands.
3 Carl Heymans
He was dominant at scrum time and was able to create a good platform for the New Zealand teams to launch attacks from.
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2 Keith Wood
As tough as nails and a strong ball-carrier. Keith showed no regard for his own safety in the way he flew into contact.
1 Os Du Randt
A big, powerful ball-carrier, and as strong as they come in the scrums.
Photo: Odd Andersen/AFP
