If there’s one player who knows about what it takes to dominate the biggest stage in rugby, it’s Jeremy Guscott.
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The former England centre has handpicked his ultimate XV of Rugby World Cup winners , as featured in The Rugby Paper.
Here’s his take on the legends who lit up the tournament.
15. John Gallagher (New Zealand, 1987)
“In terms of a traditional full-back hitting the line, Gallagher did it as well as any No.15 I have seen. He was elusive, very quick, and the way the All Blacks brought him into the line was a joy to watch.”
Bio: Gallagher was an integral part of New Zealand’s dominant 1987 World Cup-winning side. Born in London, the former police officer switched to rugby after excelling in Gaelic football. With 17 tries in 18 tests, his impact in the All Black jersey was immense, even though his international career lasted just two years before switching codes to rugby league.
14. Jason Robinson (England, 2003)
“His speed over anything from 0 to 35 metres was quicker than anything I’ve seen. The biggest cross-code success story in Rugby Union.”
Bio: Robinson made a seamless transition from rugby league to union, becoming a global superstar. Known as ‘Billy Whizz,’ his electrifying footwork and pace helped England lift the Webb Ellis Cup in 2003. He scored England’s only try in the final and retired as one of the most iconic players in rugby history.
13. Conrad Smith (New Zealand, 2011)
“Smith quietly went about his business, deceptively quick and strong, showing you don’t have to be 15 stone to make an impact.”
Bio: Nicknamed “The Snake” for his ability to slither through defenses, Smith was the brains behind New Zealand’s attack during their triumphant 2011 campaign. With 94 test caps, the lawyer-turned-rugby star was a cornerstone of the All Blacks’ golden era.
12. Tim Horan (Australia, 1991 & 1999)
“Winning two World Cups says it all. He was a pocket battleship with electric pace and one of the toughest tacklers pound-for-pound.”
Bio: Horan’s resilience was legendary. After a career-threatening knee injury, he bounced back to dominate the 1999 World Cup, earning Player of the Tournament. His blend of skill, grit, and leadership made him one of the Wallabies’ greatest-ever centres.
11. David Campese (Australia, 1991)
“You cannot say more about him than he’s already said about himself. For pure talent and instinct, he’s up there with Jonah Lomu.”
Bio: Campese was the ultimate entertainer, combining flair with match-winning ability. Known for his infamous “goose-step” and audacious plays, Campo was central to Australia’s World Cup success in 1991. He retired as rugby’s leading test try-scorer.
10. Jonny Wilkinson (England, 2003)
“In his prime, he was a phenomenon. His ability to handle pressure and kick goals was unmatched.”
Bio: Wilkinson’s dramatic drop goal in the dying moments of extra time in the 2003 final remains the most iconic moment in rugby history. A defensive stalwart and tactical mastermind, Wilkinson amassed 1,246 test points and is revered as one of the all-time greats.
9. Joost van der Westhuizen (South Africa, 1995)
“When you looked into Joost’s eyes, they were those of a winner. Strong, fast, and tenacious—a real Test match animal.”
Bio: A giant of the game, Joost revolutionized the scrum-half role with his physicality and eye for the try line. Instrumental in South Africa’s emotional 1995 triumph, he remains one of the Springboks’ most celebrated players.
8. Buck Shelford (New Zealand, 1987)
“A true warrior who did the basics incredibly well. He had huge presence and a will to win.”
Bio: Known for his uncompromising leadership, Shelford famously captained the All Blacks to an unbeaten run between 1987 and 1990. His toughness and skill epitomized the success of New Zealand’s first World Cup-winning side.
7. Michael Jones (New Zealand, 1987)
“He made everything look easy—a remarkable athlete and one of the all-time great openside flankers.”
Bio: Nicknamed “The Iceman,” Jones was a trailblazer for the modern flanker. A devout Christian, he chose not to play on Sundays, yet his talent ensured his place among rugby’s elite. Scoring the first-ever World Cup try, Jones remains an icon.
6. Richard Hill (England, 2003)
“He didn’t get the plaudits, but he was always the first name on the team sheet. His work-rate was phenomenal.”
Bio: Hill was the engine room of England’s back row during their 2003 World Cup campaign. His relentless tackling and ability to read the game earned him a reputation as the ultimate team player.
5. John Eales (Australia, 1991 & 1999)
“What he lacked in weight, he made up for with athleticism and a huge appetite for hard work.”
Bio: Known as “Nobody” because nobody’s perfect, Eales was a dominant force in lineouts and a match-winning goal kicker. A two-time World Cup winner, his leadership and skill earned him the title of one of rugby’s true greats.
4. Martin Johnson (England, 2003)
“An amazing leader who consistently performed at a world-class level.”
Bio: England’s captain fantastic, Johnson led by example, inspiring his team to their historic 2003 victory. A towering presence in the lineout and around the park, he remains one
3. Phil Vickery (England, 2003)
“Big and mobile, he helped rewrite the script for modern props. He always did his job in the scrum, but his ball-carrying and tackling were top-class.”
Bio: Known as “The Raging Bull,” Vickery was a cornerstone of England’s pack during their 2003 World Cup triumph. His blend of raw power and agility made him a standout in the modern era, with 73 caps and a Lions tour to his name.
2. Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand, 1987)
“A gritty competitor who never seemed to have a poor game. He always found an edge.”
Bio: Fitzpatrick epitomized consistency and leadership, earning 92 caps for the All Blacks. He was a key part of their victorious 1987 side and went on to captain New Zealand with distinction. Known for his toughness and durability, he rarely missed a game throughout his stellar career.
1. Steve McDowell (New Zealand, 1987)
“The super-fit prototype for the modern prop. His scrummaging and work around the pitch set the standard.”
Bio: A vital member of New Zealand’s formidable 1987 front row, McDowell redefined what was expected of a prop. With a reputation for his fitness and mobility, he helped establish the All Blacks’ dominance during their first World Cup win.
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Can You Name England’s XV from Their 2019 World Cup Win Over the All Blacks?
With a nail-biting score of 19-7, Eddie Jones’s men delivered a masterclass in strategy and grit, proving that anything is possible on the grand stage of rugby.
But here’s the challenge: can you name the legendary 23 players who fought tooth and nail to secure that stunning victory?
From powerhouse forwards to lightning-fast backs, each player played a crucial role in this unforgettable triumph. Think you know the squad that made history?
Let’s put your memory to the test!
