Greatest Rugby Union Players of All Time: Legends Ranked

Hailing from Wales’ 60s and 70s heyday, Gareth Edwards' rugby legacy was his country enjoying a period of sheer dominance in Europe and also internationally.

Commanding play at scrum-half, he helped the Dragons win seven Five Nations (now Six Nations) titles, including three triple crowns by not losing a single game.

Edwards also scored a legendary five-pointer for the Barbarians against New Zealand in Cardiff in 1973, considered by many as one of the greatest tries in rugby history.

Considering the might of New Zealand, even in their seeming lull eras, standing out as a player and captain is why Richie McCaw rugby is among the finest.

He led the All Blacks to the World Cup trophy in 2011 and 2015, with his unrivalled work ethic and ability to read opposition strategies some of his hallmarks.

Many believe McCaw redefined the open-side flanker position, as he cemented his place in the New Zealand XV and became his country’s most-capped star.

Dan Carter is widely regarded as the greatest goal-kicker rugby has witnessed, having scored the most amount of points in international rugby.

The dynamic fly-half had unparalleled vision in open play and demonstrated this during the 2015 World Cup final - where the stakes were highest.

With his international scoring rate still unmatched, Carter remains the benchmark for the 10 jersey, years after retiring from international rugby.

While the word ‘consistency’ is thrown around a lot, Jonny Wilkinson came to define that term with his unshakeable performance at the highest level.

His drop-goal to seal the 2003 World Cup for England set him apart as a master from the kicking tee and few have been able to match his kicking ability.

Jonny Wilkinsons’ rugby legacy is also emphasised in awards like the World Rugby Hall of Fame, IRB Player of the Year, and his English honours.

Representing New Zealand in sevens and rugby union, Portia Woodman is undoubtedly the greatest female player to wear the black and white.

In 2017, her unstoppable try-scoring stock was emphasised with 13 tries and 65 points for the Black Ferns, both of which were records that year.

With lightning pace at her disposal, Woodman holds the most number of tries for New Zealand and also holds her country’s sevens record for tries.

Another notable name among the Rugby World Cup legends, Sarah Hunter was a key member of the England squad that hoisted the trophy in 2014.

As a commanding presence in the #8 jersey, she is best known for excellence at the breakdown and became her country’s most capped player ever.

Hunter was also the captain for the 2021 RWC, where the Red Roses finished as runners-up, before she transitioned into a coach for her country.