Dan Carter names the three most underrated rugby players of all-time
Rugby NewsTuesday, 01 August 2023 at 08:51
New Zealand legend Dan Carter was asked by Mail Online to name his top three toughest opponents from his stellar career. Here’s who he picked:
The greatest back of the professional era, Carter's record speaks for itself. Way out in front as the leading points scorer in international rugby history, with 1,598 points from his 112 caps.
Throw in a further 1,708 points for the Crusaders and the fly-half’s impact on the game cannot be emphasised enough.
One of his greatest performances came in the second Test against the Lions in 2005, when he outshone Wilkinson in their fly-half battle to lead New Zealand to an emphatic 48-18 triumph in Wellington.
Below, Carter has revealed the five toughest players he came across during his legendary career:
#3. Conrad Smith (New Zealand)
A legendary New Zealand rugby center, Conrad Smith, is celebrated for his intelligent and composed style of play.
With exceptional vision and precise passing, he was a key figure in the All Blacks' backline during their successful campaigns, including World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015.
Carter wrote: ""Conrad Smith. He's a right battler and an amazing player to play with. Unarguably, one of the best of all-time for me, but doesn't get the praise he deserves."
#2. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Renowned French rugby player, Thierry Dusautoir, was a dynamic flanker who captained France to the 2011 Rugby World Cup final.
Known for his leadership and tenacious defense, he earned the nickname "The Dark Destroyer." Dusautoir's skill and determination solidified his status as a true rugby legend.
Carter said: "He had some blinding games in big moments — none more so than in the 2007 and 2011 World Cup games against the All Blacks."
England's, Toby Flood fall short of the try line and is taken off the field after France's, Thierry Dusautoir landed on him - Photo mandatory by-line: Jan Kruger / Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile: 0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 768 6958 48 - 150309 - SPORT - RUGBY - RBS 6 NATIONS - England v France - Twickenham
#1. Owen Farrell (England)
gifted English rugby union player, Owen Farrell, excels as a fly-half and center. He is renowned for his tactical acumen, remarkable goal-kicking accuracy, and fierce competitiveness.
As an integral part of England and the British & Irish Lions, Farrell has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Carter wrote: "What Owen Farrell’s contributed to English rugby has been immense,
"I played against him at international and club level and he drives the teams he plays for. He demands excellence and to sustain that for 100 caps is an incredible.
"People have their different views of him and his style of play, but the game will miss him when he finishes playing. I always remember him setting the tone with his body language against the haka in 2019.
"He’s one of the rare characters and rare leaders that the game needs. I think he’ll get a lot more respect when he finishes the game. He’ll go onto beat my points scoring record and then he can retire after that!"
Owen Farrell, Captain of England during the Six Nations Match between England and Italy at Twickenham, London on 12 Feb 2023 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
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