Peter O’Mahony has faced off against some of the biggest names in the game, but when asked to pick his three toughest opponents, he wasted no time in making his choices.
The flanker, who recently hinted that he will likely retire at the end of the 2024/25 season, announced that he’s ready to hang up his boots after a remarkable career. While playing abroad remains a slight possibility, O’Mahony suggested that his one-year contract extension from last summer will probably be his final chapter in professional rugby.
So, who are the men that left a lasting impression on him? All three of O’Mahony’s picks are iconic All Blacks, renowned for their physicality, leadership, and undeniable skill. Let’s dive into the profiles of these rugby titans.
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#3. Kieran Read
Position: Number 8
Caps: 128
O’Mahony on Read:
“Read was probably the most skilful I’ve come up against, whether it was backs or forwards—he’d be well up there as well.”
Player Bio:
Kieran Read was a dynamic and intelligent number 8, known for his exceptional skills both as a ball-carrier and a leader. He was a linchpin of the All Blacks for over a decade, earning 128 caps and captaining the side from 2013 to 2019. With a calm demeanour and excellent decision-making, Read helped lead New Zealand to Rugby World Cup victories and numerous Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders.
DID YOU KNOW?
Before making his mark in rugby, Read was a promising cricketer. He represented Northern District age-group teams and earned selection for New Zealand’s Under-17 cricket side.
#2. Richie McCaw
Position: Flanker
Caps: 148
O’Mahony on McCaw:
“One of my heroes. I feel very privileged to have played against him. The All Blacks have never replaced him.”
Player Bio:
Richie McCaw is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time. As a flanker, his work rate, leadership, and mastery of the breakdown were unparalleled. McCaw earned an astounding 148 caps for the All Blacks and captained the team to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. His longevity, mental toughness, and ability to perform under pressure set him apart as a true legend of the game.
DID YOU KNOW?
McCaw’s roots trace back to Scotland, and as a nod to his heritage, he learned to play the bagpipes. Off the field, he’s known for his humility and quiet leadership.
#1. Jerry Collins
Position: Flanker
Caps: 48
O’Mahony on Collins:
“In games, I remember that Ospreys team when I first started off. They had a back-row of Jerry Collins, [Filo] Tiatia, and Marty Holah. I was just out of my teens. It was a nasty enough back-row to come up against. Collins was a vicious bas***rd but a real gentleman off the pitch.”
Player Bio:
Jerry Collins was a ferocious flanker who embodied raw physicality and fearless tackling. With 48 caps for the All Blacks, Collins’ imposing presence on the field earned him a reputation as one of the toughest and most uncompromising players of his era. He was known not only for his devastating tackles but also for his leadership at club level, including stints with the Hurricanes and Ospreys.
DID YOU KNOW?
Collins was a cousin of fellow All Black great Tana Umaga. Tragically, Collins passed away in 2015, but his bravery and heart—both on and off the field—remain legendary.
Tragic End:
In 2015, Collins and his partner Alana Madill died in a car accident in France. His final act of heroism was shielding his baby daughter Ayla from the impact, a testament to the type of man he was.
Richest Rugby Couples List: Love, Legacy, and Fortunes
Johnny and Laura Sexton – £6m
Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby’s wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin’s Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny’s rugby career.
Siya and Rachel Kolisi – £10m
With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy. Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter. Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the “rock” Siya has always called her.
Though the Kolisis’ marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa’s most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.
Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m
Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.
Nicknamed “The Fridge” due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he’s made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.
Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall’s wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.
Jonny and Shelley Wilkinson – £22m
Jonny Wilkinson is a legendary figure in English rugby, with a career spanning 12 seasons at Newcastle Falcons before his move to French club Toulon in 2009. Wilkinson cemented his place in history by leading England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming a national hero in the process.
In his personal life, Wilkinson has kept a lower profile. He married his long-time girlfriend, Shelley Jenkins, in a private ceremony on the French Riviera in October 2013. The couple now has a son, reportedly named James, and maintain a relatively private family life. Wilkinson’s net worth stands at £22 million, making him one of rugby’s wealthiest figures.
Sonny Bill and Alana Williams – £20m
Sonny Bill Williams is a sporting icon from New Zealand, famed not only for his rugby achievements but also for his ventures into boxing. Known for his versatility, Williams has excelled in both rugby union and rugby league, playing as a centre and second-rower, respectively. Additionally, his brief yet successful stint in professional boxing saw him win nine out of 10 heavyweight bouts.
In 2013, Williams married Alana Raffie after a whirlwind four-week romance, following Islamic traditions despite admitting that they were not in love at the time. Their union has since become one of the most talked-about in sports. With a combination of earnings from rugby, boxing, and endorsements, the couple’s net worth is reported to be around £20 million.
