Get ready for a surprising revelation from renowned rugby referee Nigel Owens, as he unveils his list of the top five captains he has officiated.
The popular referee selected his picks for Wales Online, but set out at the start that he wouldn’t be picking any Welshman in his selection.
“I am not going to include any Welsh players on my list because I haven’t refereed them in international matches.
“Anyway, these are my top Test skippers ranked, Welshmen aside.”
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NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw’s dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: “Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
#4. Jean de Villiers (South Africa)
He is a retired South African rugby union player who made a lasting impact on the international stage.
As a versatile back, he showcased his skills and leadership abilities as the captain of the Springboks from 2012 to 2015.
De Villiers’ playing career spanned over a decade, during which he exhibited exceptional athleticism and a powerful presence on the field.
He was widely respected for his tactical knowledge, unwavering commitment, and ability to inspire his teammates.
De Villiers remains an influential figure in the rugby world and continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and commentary.
Owens said: “He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me.”
#3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
McCaw is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game.
The flankers career was defined by his exceptional skills, relentless work rate, and unparalleled leadership abilities.
He captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as a true icon of the sport.
Known for his ability to win turnovers and dominate the breakdown, McCaw’s impact on the game was immeasurable. Beyond his playing career, he continues to be an influential figure, inspiring future generations of rugby players.
Owens said: “He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.
“Maybe he will be at the top for many people.
“New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost.”
#2. Paul O’Connell & Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
O’Connell is a former Irish rugby union player known for his towering presence and exceptional leadership skills.
As a lock, he captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leading them to memorable victories. O’Connell’s fearless competitiveness and humility made him a respected figure in the rugby community.
Meanwhile, O’Driscoll is an iconic Irish rugby union player and one of the greatest centres in the game’s history.
His exceptional skill set, speed, and agility made him a constant threat on the field. O’Driscoll captained both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
Owens said: “I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.
“O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.
I found them excellent to deal with.”
#1. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Dusautoir is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his incredible defensive skills and fearless tackling. As a flanker, he captained the French national team from 2009 to 2015 and was a key figure in their formidable defense.
The flankers physicality, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opponents’ play made him a formidable force on the field. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2011.
Dusautoir’s leadership and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring aspiring rugby players around the world.
Owens said: “My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.
“He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well.”
Rugby’s Top Earners: The 20 Highest-Paid Players in the Game Right Now
Who’s next to break the £1 million barrier? Let the salary race begin.
- Siya Kolisi (Sharks) – £808k
- Owen Farrell (Racing 92) – £797k
- Finn Russell (Bath) – £795k
- Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath) – £740k
- Faf de Klerk (Yokohama Canon Eagles) – £716k
- Dan Biggar (Toulon) – £636k
- Maro Itoje (Saracens) – £636k
- Antoine Dupont (Toulouse) – £557k
- Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights) – £506k
- Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers) – £502k
- Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm) – £502k
- Mitchell Moses (Parrametta Eels) – £499k
- Daly Cherry-Evans (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles) – £497k
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans) – £497k
- Payne Haas (Brisbane Broncos) – £497k
- Steve Luatua (Bristol Bears) – £493k
- Nicholas Hynes (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks) – £492k
- James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters) – £492k
- Tom Trbojevic – (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles) – £492k
- Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers) – £485k
Editors Picks:
- Nigel Owens and Wayne Barnes name the best rugby union stadium
- Gabby Logan’s powerhouse back-row son tipped for England call-up
- England centre Ollie Lawrence makes decision on his future
- Marcus Smith reveals dream of switching nations to play alongside his brothers
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players #2
If you’re over 30 and can’t name these iconic rugby stars from the 2000s, we have to ask: were you really paying attention? Back by popular demand, it’s time for part two of our nostalgic quiz.
From stunning tries to unforgettable moments—and yes, some hairstyles we’d rather forget—these players were at the heart of rugby’s golden era. If the names don’t come flooding back, it might be time to fire up YouTube and relive the magic.
Think you’ve got what it takes to ace this one? Let’s find out. Good luck!
The post Nigel Owens Names His Top 5 International Captains He’s Ever Reffed appeared first on Ruck.
