Richie McCaw makes his feelings on former England flanker clear

Yesterday at 03:44 PM

Richie McCaw is one of the most legendary figures in rugby, especially when it comes to the All Blacks. With a staggering 148 caps, he not only set a then-world record but also led New Zealand to 131 victories, captaining the side in 111 of those games.

In 2011, McCaw lifted the Rugby World Cup on home soil, cementing his place as one of the greatest All Blacks ever. But his journey didn't end there. He went on to dominate for another four years, shattering records and eventually raising the Webb Ellis trophy again in 2015, capping off his career with the ultimate high.

So, who were the toughest opponents he faced in his storied career? Let's dive in.

#5. Lewis Moody (England)

Position: Back-row
Height: 6 ft 3 in
Weight: 225 lb
Caps: 71

Known as “Mad Dog” for his relentless energy on the field, Lewis Moody was always a thorn in the side of the opposition. Whether it was hunting down opponents or contesting possession at restarts, Moody had a knack for making life difficult for anyone he faced.

McCaw shared his respect for the English flanker:
“I had a lot of respect for the way he played. He threw himself into everything, and he was a ball carrier who could also pressure backlines.”

DID YOU KNOW?
In August 2014, Moody joined 200 public figures in signing a letter to The Guardian opposing Scottish independence ahead of the referendum.

#4. Thierry Dusautoir (France)

Position: Back-row
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Weight: 218 lb
Caps: 80

Thierry Dusautoir announced himself on the global stage in 2007 when France shocked New Zealand in a World Cup quarter-final. Four years later, he scored a try and earned Man of the Match honors in the final, although New Zealand managed an 8-7 win.

McCaw reflected on the battles with Dusautoir:
“Over the years, I’ve played him a few times, and you always knew he was there. He was a menace, especially defensively and at the breakdown.”

DID YOU KNOW?
Dusautoir set a record for most tackles in a match, making 38 against the All Blacks in that infamous 2007 World Cup upset.

#3. David Pocock (Australia)

Position: Flanker
Height: 6 ft 0 in
Weight: 227 lb
Caps: 80

The Zimbabwe-born Pocock debuted for Australia in 2008 and quickly established himself as one of the best openside flankers in world rugby. His contests with McCaw were always must-watch rugby.

McCaw admired Pocock's talent:
“I always looked forward to games against top No.7s, and Pocock was one of the best.”

DID YOU KNOW?
Pocock co-founded Eightytwenty Vision, a not-for-profit aiming to assist underprivileged communities in Zimbabwe.

#2. Schalk Burger (South Africa)

Position: Back-row
Height: 6 ft 4 in
Weight: 242 lb
Caps: 86

Schalk Burger was an absolute force for the Springboks, known for his physicality and relentless aggression near the ball. Playing against Burger was never an easy day at the office.

McCaw noted the intensity of their encounters:
“With Burger, you always knew what to expect. He was always in your face, and when he was on form, he was scary good.”

DID YOU KNOW?
When not on the rugby pitch, Burger works with his family at the Welbedacht Wine Estate in Wellington, South Africa.

#1. George Smith (Australia)

Position: Back-row
Height: 5 ft 11 in
Weight: 233 lb
Caps: 111

George Smith was a rugby icon for Australia, facing off against the All Blacks in 24 of his 111 tests. His battles with McCaw became legendary, with Smith often having the upper hand in breakdown contests.

McCaw revealed that Smith was the toughest of them all:
“I remember playing against him in the under-19s and thinking even back then how good he was. He was always tough.”

DID YOU KNOW?
Smith auctioned off his famous dreadlocks in 2006 to raise money for a charity supporting young cancer patients.

Richie McCaw didn't hesitate when naming the best rugby stadium for atmosphere

When Richie McCaw, arguably the greatest rugby player of all time, talks about stadiums that made a lasting impact on him, the rugby world listens.

The former All Blacks captain, who led his team to two World Cup victories, has played in nearly every major rugby arena, but a few hold a special place in his heart.

Let's take a closer look at McCaw's favourite rugby grounds, the atmosphere they offer, and some quirky details that make them legendary.

Principality Stadium: Rugby Heaven Under a Roof

McCaw's top choice for atmosphere? The iconic Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. Known for its electric vibe when the roof is closed, McCaw fondly recalls the incredible energy of the crowd that echoes through the 74,000-seat arena.

“It is great to be playing with the roof closed as that creates both a great atmosphere and a dry ball,” said Richie McCaw. The indoor setting makes the venue unique, creating a cauldron-like effect where sound bounces around, making it incredibly loud. Whether you’re Welsh or not, the cheers (and jeers) surround you from all angles.

Despite the deafening noise, McCaw loved the challenge:
“It can be extremely noisy but then it is the same for both sides and you just have to do your best to get your messages over to your mates.”

This stadium, originally known as the Millennium Stadium, is nestled in the heart of Cardiff and is as iconic for its retractable roof as for the history it holds. From World Cup finals to Six Nations clashes, it’s a venue that every player wants to experience.

For McCaw, this stadium is in a league of its own:
“It is certainly one of my favourite places,” he said. And who can blame him? Few rugby venues boast the atmosphere of Principality on a match day.

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