Martin Johnson Picks His Top 5 Locks of All Time

Hailing from Solihull, England, Johnson, born on March 9, 1970, emerged as one of England's finest players and leaders, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Standing tall at 6 feet 7 inches, Johnson became a commanding presence on the field, particularly excelling as a second-row forward with a reputation for uncompromising play. His international career spanned from 1993 to 2003, earning him 84 caps and leading England to numerous triumphs, notably culminating in their historic victory at the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

Assuming the captaincy in 1999, Johnson guided England to a remarkable Grand Slam in the 2003 Six Nations, showcasing his leadership prowess. His tenure culminated in World Cup glory, elevating England's rugby team to unprecedented heights and solidifying Johnson's legendary status in the annals of English rugby history.

Even after retiring from playing, Johnson seamlessly transitioned into coaching and managerial roles, continuing to contribute to the growth of the sport. Whether on the field or guiding from the sidelines, his unyielding spirit, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication have left an enduring legacy.

Delve into his compilation of the finest five locks below, ranging from those who inspired him during his childhood to the most formidable adversaries he faced on the field.

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Revered as an icon in New Zealand rugby, Sir Colin Meads, also known as "Pinetree," was a colossal figure in the sport. His career as a rugged and versatile lock spanned from the 1950s to the 1970s, leaving an enduring legacy of toughness and skill.

A towering figure in South African rugby, Frik du Preez dominated the lineout as a lock and contributed significantly to the Springboks' success during the 1960s and 1970s. His athleticism, strength, and strategic prowess made him a key player in the golden era of South African rugby.

Renowned Irish rugby legend, Paul O'Connell, is celebrated for his inspirational leadership and ferocious play. A towering lock, he captained both Munster and the Irish national team, earning admiration for his indomitable spirit and strategic brilliance on the field.

Australian rugby's towering figure, John Eales, was a lock and captain extraordinaire. Renowned for his exceptional leadership, skillful play, and clutch performances, "Nobody" Eales guided the Wallabies to two Rugby World Cup victories and left an indelible mark on the sport's history.

Renowned for his exceptional lineout skills, Ian Jones was a stalwart in the New Zealand rugby scene during the 1990s. The towering lock's agility, work rate, and commitment to excellence played a pivotal role in the All Blacks' success.

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This extraordinary feat is as scarce as they come, with only 20 players accomplishing the remarkable three-try milestone since the Championship expanded to six nations in 2000.

Notably, a couple of players have even pulled off this astonishing feat twice, adding an extra layer of prestige to their rugby prowess.

Now, take a moment to rewind and test your memory. Can you recall the names of these exceptional hat-trick heroes?

If you manage a perfect score, you'll undoubtedly be entitled to a celebration on par with the jubilant antics witnessed by some of the stars on this illustrious list.