Nigel Owens ranks his FIVE best rugby players of all-time

The professional era's greatest back, Carter holds the record for the most points scored in international rugby history with 1,598 points from 112 caps. In addition to his impressive international career, he also scored 1,708 points for the Crusaders.

Known for his goal-kicking abilities, smooth running style, and exceptional control, Carter is a complete player and has consistently proven to be a game-changer at the highest level.

He made his Test debut against Wales in 2003, playing at inside centre and scoring 20 points, and it was also against Wales in 2010 that he kicked a penalty from halfway at the Millennium Stadium to surpass Jonny Wilkinson as the top point scorer in the world.

OWENS SAID: "There are lots of outside-halves who have been great, but not one who has done it over so many years like Carter.

"Before the 2015 World Cup, some people said he was past his best and wouldn’t make the New Zealand squad for the tournament. But for Carter to come back from injury and play as well as he did then is a sign of a special player."

OWENS SAID: "A man of few words, he does his talking on the field with his actions. Not only is he a brilliant player and a very good captain but I don’t think I have reffed a match where he hasn’t given absolutely everything.

"He’s been playing at lock for 15 years and remains one of the first names on the Wales team-sheet, which says everything about his ability."

O'Driscoll is widely known as one of the most formidable players in the game and has consistently demonstrated his skills throughout his career.

As Ireland's record try scorer with 46 touchdowns, O'Driscoll also holds the record for leading his country the most times of any player.

His exceptional defensive abilities and dazzling attacking skills made him a threat on the field in all areas.

OWENS SAID: "Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well.

"O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch."

OWENS SAID: "The greatest Wales player of all-time. I'd be in big trouble if I didn't mention him."

McCaw was a skilled and hardworking rugby player, known for his abilities at the breakdown and his dynamic running. 

He developed excellent handling skills and was a key link man on the field, with the athleticism and ball-carrying ability to consistently break the line. 

McCaw was also a fearless and outstanding exponent at the breakdown throughout his career. In addition to his impressive skills on the field, he was also a respected leader. 

He achieved legendary status by leading the All Blacks to victory in the 2011 Rugby World Cup, and he continued to break records and lead the team for four more years, winning the Webb Ellis trophy for a second time.

OWENS SAID: "If anybody had to pick the greatest player in history, it would surely be a difficult choice between him and Edwards. How McCaw managed to put his body on the line and sometimes the wrong side at rucks for so many years at flanker is incredible. A terrific leader."