Welsh rugby icon Gareth Edwards has named the five modern players he wishes he could have lined up alongside during his glittering career.
, the legendary scrum-half—widely regarded as one of the greatest players in rugby union history—highlighted a mix of flair, leadership, and resilience in his selections.
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From creative playmakers to inspirational captains, Edwards’ list reflects the qualities he values most: vision, skill, and the ability to influence a game at the highest level.
5. Finn Russell (Scotland)
Bio: Finn Russell is one of rugby’s most entertaining fly-halves, known for his creativity, unpredictability, and attacking vision. A key figure for Scotland and a standout performer at club level in both the Premiership and Top 14, Russell has built a reputation as a fearless playmaker capable of unlocking even the toughest defences.
Edwards said:
“He's one of the more modern boys who is a bit of a throwback to the old days. When I watch him play I like him. You can see him thinking about how to open those doors. Similar to Barry John and Phil Bennett back in the day. I love watching him play.”
4. Sergio Parisse (Italy)
Bio: Widely regarded as Italy’s greatest-ever player, Sergio Parisse was a dynamic No. 8 who combined physicality with exceptional skill.
He captained his country for many years and earned over 140 caps, often carrying Italy through difficult periods with consistently world-class performances.
Edwards said:
“One of the outstanding personalities and players of this era. When I think of the pressure that was on him to keep performing game after game in a side that wasn't quite there. He always ticked all the boxes against the other teams. His skill, his physique made him a top-class rugby player. I believe he's one of the best there has been since Mervyn Davies.”
3. Martin Johnson (England)
Bio: Martin Johnson is one of England’s most iconic captains, best known for leading his country to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup. A towering lock forward, Johnson was revered for his leadership, physical presence, and uncompromising style, as well as his success with Leicester Tigers.
Edwards said:
“I've always admired him from his early days through to the end, tremendous player and captain, and of course a World Cup winner.”
2. Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)
Bio: Brian O’Driscoll is widely considered one of the greatest centres in rugby history.
A long-time Ireland captain, he combined intelligence, agility, and technical brilliance, becoming his country’s all-time leading try scorer and a central figure in Irish rugby’s rise on the world stage.
Edwards said:
“I absolutely loved O'Driscoll. He didn't rely on sheer physicality, he wasn't 6ft 4in, he had dancing feet and was an exceptional player. He was a throwback.”
1. Antoine Dupont (France)
Bio: Antoine Dupont is widely regarded as the best player in the world in recent years. The France captain and scrum-half is known for his all-round excellence—combining strength, speed, tactical awareness, and leadership. He has been instrumental in France’s resurgence and their Six Nations successes.
Edwards said:
“One of the dominant, if not the most dominant, players in Europe in the last few years. He's good enough to play anywhere so we could play together. I've enjoyed watching him play. He is an outstanding all-round rugby player.”
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