Jonny Wilkinson Names His Three Favourite Rugby Stadiums – And They're Absolute Beauts
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Rugby royalty Jonny Wilkinson has revealed his top three stadiums for electrifying atmospheres, and shockingly, England's Twickenham Stadium didn't make the cut.
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Wilkinson, who made his Premiership debut with Newcastle Falcons in 1997, spent over a decade racking up 2,049 points for the northern club, cementing himself as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.
However, despite his loyalty to the Falcons, Kingston Park – their home ground – also missed out on a place in his coveted list of top stadiums.
The iconic fly-half shared his thoughts back in 2017 during a candid Q&A, giving fans a glimpse into the venues that left the biggest impression on him during his illustrious career.
Here are the three stadiums that Wilkinson believes delivered an atmosphere like no other:
#3. Stade de France (France)
Perhaps not the best situated stadium, but it sure has a great view. It’s atmosphere can be a help and a hindrance for Les Bleus.
When France are on the front foot, it can generate a great atmosphere but it can also inspire the opposition when they're not.
Wilkinson said: “'Whenever I played there on every occasion, the atmosphere was fantastic.”
Embed from Getty Images#2. Principality Stadium (Wales)
The Old Cardiff Arms Park was great but everything about the Millennium Stadium – renamed later as the Principality Stadium – is nigh on perfect save from some early teething problems with the turf which can struggle a little when the roof is on for prolonged periods.
Wilkinson said: “I always felt Cardiff was an incredible stadium because of the passion and the knowledge the Wales fans have. I also won a Heineken Cup there, which I’ll never forget.
“Even playing for England, the crowd was always very respectful to me.”
Embed from Getty Images#1. Stadium Australia (Australia)
Its capacity is 84,000 and this makes it the biggest venue on this list
There are usually a minimum of two rugby union tests played at Stadium Australia over the course of a year, with one often being a tour match. Back in 2003, the stadium hosted seven Rugby World Cup games under its former guise of the Telstra Stadium.
Wilkinson said: “'The best atmosphere I ever played in was in an England shirt was in Australia for that Rugby World Cup final, it was electric,
“Probably those three stadiums, they were brilliant.”
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