Eben Etzebeth names All Blacks icon Ma'a Nonu among his toughest-ever opponents
Today at 02:07 AM
Springbok enforcer Eben Etzebeth, one of the most feared locks in rugby, has faced countless legends throughout his illustrious career.
Join the RUCK's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
Speaking to RugbyPass for their 'Rugby Roots' series, the towering South African admitted he couldn't single out his toughest opponent but highlighted a handful of rugby's most formidable players.
Here's who made his list of “tough” opponents:
1. Ma'a Nonu (New Zealand)
Etzebeth reflected:
“Back in the day when I went up against Ma'a Nonu. He hit me once and he just hit me from the side. I thought it was one of their props hitting me, [then] I looked at him. He was quite a hard man. Probably the guy who tackled me the hardest.”
Nonu, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, earned 103 caps for the All Blacks and was renowned for his devastating combination of power and skill. Often seen as the ultimate centre, Nonu terrorised defences for over a decade, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
2. Maro Itoje (England)
Widely regarded as one of the most athletic locks of his generation, Itoje has been a cornerstone for both England and Saracens. With a knack for disrupting lineouts, turnovers, and charging through defenses, Itoje has earned over 60 caps and continues to dominate on the international stage.
3. Brodie Retallick (New Zealand)
A World Rugby Player of the Year in 2014, Retallick is a towering presence in the All Blacks’ pack. Known for his incredible work rate, physicality, and deft handling, Retallick has been a mainstay for New Zealand since his debut in 2012, with over 100 international appearances to his name.
4. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
The most-capped rugby player of all time, Alun Wyn Jones, is a living legend. The former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain has led by example with his unmatched resilience, leadership, and tactical nous. Jones retired from international rugby in 2023, leaving behind a legacy few can rival.
5. James Ryan (Ireland)
Since bursting onto the scene in 2017, Ryan has established himself as a pivotal figure for Ireland. Known for his engine, consistency, and work at the breakdown, the Leinster man has been instrumental in Ireland's rise as a global powerhouse.
Book VIP Six Nations Packages, Hospitality and Premium Experiences
EDITORS PICKS:
- The 10 greatest scrum-halves of all time – ranked
- There's a new surprise favourite to replace Steve Borthwick as England boss
- Bill Beaumont Poised for Stunning RFU Return Amid Leadership Shake-Up
- Joe Marler picks his England front-row for the Six Nations
- England Rugby Star Out for the Season After Brutal Injury Blow
The post Eben Etzebeth names All Blacks icon Ma'a Nonu among his toughest-ever opponents appeared first on Ruck.
