Adam Jones includes England legend Jason Leonard in his all-time greatest front-row
Rugby NewsWednesday, 07 February 2024 at 22:49
Which rugby players stand as the absolute best in the history of the sport? After careful consideration, Adam Jones made his definitive choices known during an episode of the #LooseHeadz podcast.
When tasked with assembling a dream team capable of taking on the universe, the seasoned 97-cap tighthead-prop revealed his selection of XV players, with the managerial reins entrusted to none other than Harry Redknapp.
Adam Jones all-time dream team.
Fullback: Lee Byrne (Wales)
A dynamic and dependable fullback, Lee Byrne's rugby prowess shone brightly in the Welsh jersey. Known for his powerful runs, strategic positioning, and solid defensive skills, Byrne was a linchpin in the backline. His ability to read the game and join the attacking line made him a crucial asset in any match.
Winger: Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
Bowe, the Irish winger, was a prolific try-scorer and a constant threat to opposition defenses. Blessed with exceptional speed, agility, and finishing ability, Bowe's presence on the wing added flair and excitement to every game. A versatile player, he could turn the tide of a match with his dazzling footwork and rugby intelligence.
Centre: Jonathan Davies (Wales)
His vision on the field, coupled with a powerful running game and precise passing, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Davies' leadership and game management skills further solidified his place as one of the greatest centres in rugby history.
Centre: Alan Bateman (Wales)
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Williams, a Welsh rugby icon, was a magician on the wing. Despite his modest stature, Williams possessed incredible speed, sidestepping abilities, and a natural flair for scoring tries. His electrifying runs and unmatched try-scoring record made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposition defenders.
Fly-half: Jonathan 'Jiffy' Davies (Wales)
Jonathan Davies, fondly known as 'Jiffy,' was a maestro at the fly-half position. His exceptional kicking, playmaking abilities, and astute decision-making on the field made him a pivotal figure in any team he played for. Davies' rugby intelligence and leadership qualities made him a natural choice for the crucial fly-half role.
Scrum-half: Sean Long. (England)
Long, a versatile and unpredictable rugby league star, brought flair and creativity to the game. Known for his quick thinking, precise passing, and tactical kicking, Long added a strategic dimension to the team's play. His dynamic style of play and ability to control the tempo of the game set him apart as one of the best in his position.
Jones said: "I'm not sure what position he'd bee in rugby union. Coaches with me at Harlequins and he's absolutely bonkers."
Prop: Jason Leonard (England)
Leonard, a stalwart in the front row, was a cornerstone of the English scrum. Renowned for his strength, technique, and work ethic, Leonard's presence in the prop position brought stability and dominance to the set-piece. His longevity and commitment to the game earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the greatest props in rugby history.
Hooker: Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand)
Fitzpatrick, the legendary New Zealand hooker, was a symbol of excellence in the front row. A master of the lineout, Fitzpatrick's accuracy and leadership qualities made him a linchpin in the All Blacks' pack. His durability, physicality, and commitment to the game set the standard for hookers around the world.
Prop: Olo Brown (New Zealand)
Brown, a formidable presence in the front row, anchored the scrum with power and precision. His technical proficiency, scrummaging prowess, and work rate made him a key player in the New Zealand forward pack. Brown's contributions to the set-piece laid the foundation for the All Blacks' success during his playing days.
Lock: Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
Jones, a modern-day rugby giant, epitomized the qualities of a world-class lock. With an imposing physical presence, exceptional lineout skills, and unmatched work rate, Jones became a talismanic figure for Welsh rugby. His leadership on and off the field solidified his status as one of the greatest locks in the history of the sport.
Lock: Paul O'Connell (Ireland)
O'Connell, an Irish rugby legend, combined strength, intelligence, and passion in the second row. A commanding presence in the lineout and a formidable force in the tight phases, O'Connell's leadership qualities and commitment to the game made him an inspirational figure for Ireland. His impact on the field resonated far beyond his playing days.
Flanker: Jerry Collins (New Zealand)
Collins, a ferocious and dynamic flanker, left an indelible mark on the game. Known for his bone-crunching tackles, relentless work rate, and fearless approach, Collins brought an intimidating presence to the back row. His contributions to the All Blacks and his impact on the field made him a revered figure in rugby history.
Jones said: "I was lucky enough to play with him - he was a great bloke. Mad as a box of frogs. There is a story about him being in a pub in Wales and the TV was broke so he fired off to Tesco and bought one for them.
Flanker: Marty Holah (New Zealand)
Holah, a skillful and tenacious flanker, added a touch of finesse to the back row. With a keen sense of anticipation, excellent ball-handling skills, and a tireless work ethic, Holah was a valuable asset in both attack and defense. His ability to disrupt opposition play and create turnovers made him a standout player in the loose forward position.
Number 8: Mervyn Davies (Wales)
Davies, a legendary Welsh number 8, embodied the qualities of a true rugby forward. With a powerful and dynamic playing style, Davies led from the front with his ball-carrying ability, physicality, and astute game understanding. His contributions to the scrum and open play established him as one of the premier number 8s in the history of the sport.
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