Richie McCaw names England star as his toughest opponent: 'He had the full tool kit'
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All Blacks icon Richie McCaw racked up a record-breaking 148 caps, becoming one of rugby's most celebrated players. But even legends have rivals, and these five back-row beasts gave him his hardest matches.
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5. The Silent Assassin: Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Master of tackles, leader of men, and the Frenchman McCaw could never ignore.
- Position: Back-row
- Height: 6 ft 2 in
- Weight: 218 lb
- Caps: 80
- Career Highlights: Led France in two World Cups (2007 and 2011), named IRB Player of the Year in 2011
Dusautoir, a player who led by example, was as famous for his soft-spoken nature off the field as his relentless tackling on it. Nicknamed "The Dark Destroyer," he earned his place in rugby history when he made 38 tackles against the All Blacks in 2007, a performance that left McCaw stunned. His leadership shone again in the 2011 World Cup final, scoring a try against New Zealand.
McCaw's Take: "You always know he's there—a menace at the breakdown."
DID YOU KNOW? Thierry began his rugby career late, only starting in university, yet he went on to become one of the world's best defenders!
4. The Human Breakdown: David Pocock (Australia)
Fearless in the ruck and relentless at the ball—Pocock is as tough as they come.
- Position: Flanker
- Height: 6 ft 0 in
- Weight: 227 lb
- Caps: 80
- Career Highlights: Played in three World Cups, nominated for IRB Player of the Year twice, and a two-time Brumbies Player of the Year
Born in Zimbabwe, Pocock moved to Australia as a child, quickly rising through the ranks to become a national hero. Known for his unrivaled ability to steal the ball, Pocock’s strength and skill at the breakdown earned him the reputation of being almost impossible to ruck out. McCaw admired his work ethic and always anticipated fierce battles against him.
McCaw's Take: "One of the best No.7s I've faced."
DID YOU KNOW? Pocock, a passionate environmentalist, is also a published author and runs Eightytwenty Vision, a charity supporting Zimbabwean communities.
3. The English Gentleman with the Full Tool Kit: Richard Hill (England/Lions)
Quiet but lethal, Hill brought everything you could ask for in a flanker.
- Position: Back-row
- Height: 6 ft 2 in
- Weight: 224 lb
- Caps: 76
- Career Highlights: World Cup winner in 2003, British & Irish Lions star across three tours, Hall of Fame inductee
Hill was one of the "untouchable" trio with Lawrence Dallaglio and Neil Back in England's legendary back row. Known for his impeccable timing, technical skill, and toughness, Hill's discipline on the field made him a coach's dream. Despite his quiet demeanor, he commanded respect and was an immovable force in English rugby.
McCaw's Take: "He had the full tool bag and quietly got on with it."
DID YOU KNOW? Hill is a second cousin once removed of Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson. And just like a true Middle-Earth warrior, he never backed down.
2. The South African Freight Train: Schalk Burger (South Africa)
Few players hit harder than Burger, and McCaw learned that firsthand.
- Position: Back-row
- Height: 6 ft 4 in
- Weight: 242 lb
- Caps: 86
- Career Highlights: World Cup winner in 2007, IRB Player of the Year 2004, one of South Africa's most-capped forwards
Burger was known for his fierce tackling and exceptional work rate. Despite suffering multiple injuries, including a life-threatening meningitis battle, Burger made an astonishing comeback. His rugged style kept McCaw on high alert, and the two shared a hard-fought rivalry built on mutual respect.
McCaw's Take: "With Burger, you knew where he'd be and how hard he'd play near the ball."
DID YOU KNOW? When he's not in a ruck, Burger manages his family's Welbedacht Wine Estate. His Sauvignon Blanc has even won awards!
1. The Original Dreadlocked Destroyer: George Smith (Australia)
Smith and his signature dreads became McCaw's biggest challenge.
- Position: Back-row
- Height: 5 ft 11 in
- Weight: 233 lb
- Caps: 111
- Career Highlights: Played 111 tests for Australia, World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee, two-time John Eales Medal winner
Known for his lightning-quick breakdown skills and unyielding defense, Smith was a pivotal part of Australian rugby for over a decade.
The two met often, and McCaw always knew he was in for a real test against Smith. Their rivalry spanned many games and years, with Smith's endurance proving that he could keep up with the very best.
McCaw's Take: "I remember facing him at Under-19s and thinking just how good he was."
DID YOU KNOW? In 2006, Smith shaved off his iconic dreadlocks and auctioned them to support young cancer patients.
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