Brian O’Driscoll didn’t hesitate when naming toughest opponent ever

The former Leinster star won 133 caps for Ireland and captained his country on 83 occasions, establishing himself as one of rugby’s most influential players.

Known for his sharp footwork, outstanding rugby intelligence and willingness to put his body on the line, O’Driscoll regularly came up against the biggest names in the sport.

His list offers a glimpse into the fierce battles at the heart of Test rugby, where the smallest mistake could be punished by a world-class opponent.

From destructive midfield runners to an England forward who did much of his best work away from the spotlight, these are the players who earned O’Driscoll’s respect the hard way.

Drawing on several question-and-answer sessions from down the years, including one with the Six Nations website, here are the five players O’Driscoll named among his toughest opponents.

Ma’a Nonu developed from a devastatingly powerful ball carrier into arguably the most complete inside centre of the professional era.

Initially known for his distinctive braided hair, eyeliner and ability to smash through defensive lines, Nonu continued adding new elements to his game throughout his career.

His passing, tactical kicking and decision-making eventually became almost as dangerous as his raw power.

Nonu won 103 caps for New Zealand and lifted the Rugby World Cup in both 2011 and 2015. He finished his Test career by scoring a superb solo try as the All Blacks defeated Australia in the 2015 final.

Alongside Conrad Smith, he also formed one of the greatest centre partnerships in international rugby history.

Brian O’Driscoll said: “Same height as me [5-foot-11] and still 16-stone. Probably the most complete centre in the modern game.”

Nonu continued playing at the highest level into his mid-40s. He returned to Toulon in 2025 and became the oldest player and oldest try-scorer in French Top 14 history before leaving the club at the end of the 2025/26 season.

Conrad Smith rarely looked like the quickest, strongest or most explosive player on the pitch, but his intelligence made him incredibly difficult to contain.

Nicknamed “The Snake” because of his ability to slither through the smallest gaps, Smith possessed deceptive speed and an outstanding understanding of space.

He won 94 caps for the All Blacks and played alongside Nonu during New Zealand’s dominant period between the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups.

Smith’s defensive organisation, handling and ability to make the correct decision under pressure brought balance and fluidity to the All Blacks midfield.

Brian O’Driscoll said: “I thought Conrad Smith was always one of the really difficult ones.

“He was nicknamed ‘Snake’, I think because of his hips, and it doesn’t look like he’s going that fast but, jeez, he can travel.”

Smith completed his professional legal qualifications while building his rugby career. The qualified lawyer later combined both interests by working in player welfare and as legal counsel for International Rugby Players.

Richard Hill was the ultimate players’ player and one of the most important members of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning team.

Able to excel across the back row, Hill did much of the unseen work which allowed England’s more celebrated players to flourish.

He dominated breakdowns, made countless tackles and consistently put his body on the line without seeking attention or praise.

Hill also toured three times with the British & Irish Lions, meaning O’Driscoll experienced his relentless work rate as both an opponent and a teammate.

Brian O’Driscoll said: “Richard Hill, England No.6 that won the World Cup in 2003.

“He was a brilliant teammate but he made that team tick. He was the unsung hero in that World Cup win. He was hard!

“I always liked playing with guys that were nails in the team, that really stood up and never took a backwards step.”

Hill is now England men’s team manager. Appointed to the national set-up in 2016, the former flanker works closely with Steve Borthwick and plays an important role in talent identification, player development and maintaining relationships with Premiership clubs.

Standing 6ft 4in and weighing around 17 stone, Yannick Jauzion combined the frame of a back-row forward with the handling and vision of an elite playmaker.

The imposing centre won 73 caps for France and became one of Toulouse’s most influential players during a hugely successful period for the club.

Jauzion helped Toulouse reach the Heineken Cup final in 2003, 2004 and 2005, winning the competition in 2003 and 2005.

He was named man of the match in the 2005 final as Toulouse defeated Stade Français and later added another European title in 2010.

His ability to carry through contact before producing a perfectly timed offload made him particularly difficult to defend against.

Brian O’Driscoll said: “Jauzion was just incredible and was so hard to stop, with his offloading ability.

“France built so much off and around him. Six-foot-four and probably 17-stone.”

Jauzion was raised on a farm and studied agricultural engineering before becoming one of Europe’s greatest centres.

Jonny Wilkinson became a national hero when his extra-time drop goal secured England’s victory over Australia in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final.

However, his career was defined by far more than one famous kick.

Wilkinson scored 1,246 points in 91 appearances for England, while also representing the British & Irish Lions on two tours.

His obsessive preparation, fearless defence and relentless pursuit of improvement made him one of the most respected players of his generation.

After spending 12 seasons with Newcastle Falcons, Wilkinson joined Toulon in 2009 and enjoyed a remarkable second chapter to his career.

He helped the French club win back-to-back European titles before retiring in 2014.

Brian O’Driscoll said: “Even to just get a snapshot of how his mind works now and how he thinks about things is pretty eye-opening as to what sort of detail he went into as a player.

“He’s an out-and-out perfectionist. He just needs that 10 out of 10.

“I don’t think you ever achieve it and I think he beats himself up about it, but he got pretty close to 10 a lot of times.”

Wilkinson played alongside his older brother, Mark, at Newcastle Falcons. Mark joined the club in 2002 and made 16 senior appearances, primarily playing in the centre.

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!