Jonny Wilkinson Names the Best Player He's Ever Played With – No Hesitation Needed

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England legend Jonny Wilkinson has played alongside some of rugby's greatest icons, representing England, the British & Irish Lions, Newcastle Falcons, and Toulon.

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But when it comes to the best player he's ever shared the pitch with, there's no debate—Richard Hill gets the nod.

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JONNY WILKINSON'S DREAM TEAM

FRONT-ROW

1. Jason Leonard (England) – A World Cup winner in 2003 and England's most-capped player at the time of his retirement, Leonard was a dominant loosehead prop known for his scrummaging power and leadership. Wilkinson described him as "an inspiration who brought energy to every game."

2. Keith Wood (Ireland) – The former Ireland captain and 2001 World Rugby Player of the Year was a dynamic hooker who excelled in open play. "A relentless warrior who dominated the set-piece and open play," said Wilkinson.

3. Craig Dowd (New Zealand) – A key part of the All Blacks’ forward pack in the 1990s, Dowd was a rock in the scrum. Wilkinson noted, "A quiet enforcer—you just don't mess with him."

SECOND-ROW

4. Bakkies Botha (South Africa) – A three-time Super Rugby champion and 2007 World Cup winner, Botha was one of the most feared locks in world rugby. "Fierce but down-to-earth—exactly what a team needs," Wilkinson said.

5. Martin Johnson (England) – England's 2003 World Cup-winning captain and a British & Irish Lions legend, Johnson was a commanding presence in the second row. "A natural leader and my captain," said Wilkinson.

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