3. Gerald Davies (Wales)
Davies, a Welsh rugby legend of the highest order, epitomized grace and skill on the field. Renowned for his breathtaking speed and elusive running, Davies left an indelible mark on the game during the 1960s and 1970s. As a key member of the Welsh national team and the British and Irish Lions, his exploits in both domestic and international rugby solidified his status as one of the sport’s true luminaries, celebrated for his artistry and sportsmanship.
McGeechan wrote: “He was so skilful, and could play centre as well, and had a wonderful sidestep. You knew that if you provided him with some space he would beat not just one defender, but two or three.”
2. David Campese (Australia)
Campese, also known as Campo, is a former Australian rugby union player (1982-1996), who was capped by the Wallabies 101 times, and played 85 Tests at wing and 16 at fullback. He was famous for his “goose-step” — a hitch-kick motion which left opponents stumbling to try to tackle him
McGeechan wrote: He was another game-changer: different but clever. He won games for Australia on his own and often gave his country a confidence about their rugby that they did not always have before.”
1. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
The New Zealander remains the joint all-time top try scorer at the Rugby World Cup along with Bryan Habana, crossing the whitewash on 15 different occasions across the 1995 and 1999 tournaments. The easiest selection in any greatest ever XV and an easy selection as number one on a list of the best rugby wingers.
McGeechan wrote: “He simply changed the game and drew non-rugby people to watch the sport. He arrived at a time when professionalism was imminent and his impact, both on the field and off it as a rugby superstar, is still felt now.”
