"Almost ended me" – Mike Brown has picked his Dream Team [All-Time Best 15]
Yesterday at 02:49 PM
Mike Brown revealed his Ultimate 15 while speaking on former teammate Danny Care’s YouTube channel.
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The former England fullback, known for his uncompromising playing style and extensive rugby knowledge, shared his all-time favorites, showcasing a team brimming with power, skill, and tactical brilliance.
From the set-piece dominators in the pack to the electric finishers in the backs, Brown's selections highlight the players he believes were game-changers in their respective eras.
Mike Brown: Dream team
Forwards:
Loosehead Prop: Tony Woodcock
- Renowned for his scrummaging power and memorable tries, Woodcock's ability to anchor the scrum and contribute in open play made him a favorite.
Hooker: Julian Montoya
- Montoya's prowess at the set piece and his dynamic contributions around the park earned him this spot. His leadership qualities and consistency impressed Brown.
Tighthead Prop: Martin Castrogiovanni
- Brown admired Castrogiovanni's ruggedness, strength, and iconic look. The Italian legend's dominance in the scrum and presence on the field left a lasting impression.
Second Row: Courtney Lawes
- Lawes was picked for his physicality, athleticism, and versatility. Brown appreciated his bone-crunching tackles and ability to disrupt opposition lineouts.
Second Row: Bakkies Botha
- Known for his uncompromising, hard-nosed approach, Botha brought the physical edge every team needs. Brown praised his fearless nature and tireless work ethic.
Blindside Flanker: Maurie Fa’asavalu
- Fa’asavalu's hard-hitting style and power in the loose earned him a spot. Brown admired his impact in both defense and attack.
Openside Flanker: Richie McCaw
- The legendary All Black captain, McCaw, was an automatic choice. Brown highlighted McCaw's leadership, breakdown mastery, and ability to always be in the right place at the right time.
Number Eight: Billy Vunipola
- Billy Vunipola's ball-carrying power and ability to dominate the gain line were key reasons for his selection. Brown valued his physicality and game-changing presence.
Backs:
Scrum-Half: Antoine Dupont
- Dupont's explosive running game, sharp passing, and defensive tenacity made him a must-pick. Brown praised the Frenchman's ability to dictate play and break open defenses.
Fly-Half: Dan Carter
- At fly-half, Dan Carter's precision, game management, and goal-kicking earned him the jersey. Brown admired Carter's composure under pressure and his creative brilliance.
Left Wing: Bryan Habana
- Habana's blistering speed and incredible finishing ability were celebrated. Brown reflected on his knack for scoring crucial tries and his elite acceleration.
Inside Centre: Ma'a Nonu
- Nonu's blend of power and finesse made him the perfect inside centre. Brown appreciated his ability to punch holes in the defense while also being a playmaking threat.
Outside Centre: Alesana Tuilagi
- Tuilagi was chosen for his destructive running and physical presence. Brown loved how Tuilagi could bulldoze through defenders and wreak havoc on the wing or at centre.
Right Wing: Bryan Habana
- Brown doubled down on Habana, emphasizing his game-breaking speed, work rate, and ability to deliver on the biggest stages.
Fullback: Ben Smith
- Smith's reliability, versatility, and aerial skills earned him the fullback position. Brown admired how Smith seamlessly transitioned into the backline and provided a calming influence.
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