Sir Ian McGeechan selected his all-time forward pack, it's scary good

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McGeechan's illustrious career, spanning both player and coach roles, has cemented his status as a strategic mastermind in the sport.

Notably, his tenure with the British and Irish Lions yielded triumphs and innovations, earning him widespread acclaim.

Writing for The Telegraph, the 74-year-old reveals his dream forward pack, notably including three distinguished England internationals, sparking intrigue and discussion among fans and pundits alike.

Scottish rugby legend known for his prowess in the scrum, Smith was a formidable force as a loosehead prop. His tenacity and skill earned him acclaim, including Lions tour successes and a World Cup appearance.

McGeechan said: "I just don’t think he gets anywhere near the credit he deserves. Six consecutive Lions Tests in 1997 and 2001, a talismanic figure in Scotland’s 1999 Five Nations win, a major reason Scotland were competitive at the 2003 World Cup."

A Kiwi icon, Fitzpatrick is hailed as one of rugby's greatest captains. His leadership at hooker for the All Blacks set the standard for excellence. With numerous Test victories and a World Cup win, his legacy remains indelible.

McGeechan said: "He was outstanding, not just as a player but as a captain, and as a man. His consistency was unbelievable in an international career that spanned 12 years: 92 Test appearances, including a world record 63 consecutive Test matches and 51 as captain. "

Tighthead-prop: Jason Leonard (England)

England's most capped player, Leonard was a cornerstone of the front row. Renowned for his durability and technique, the prop's achievements include a Grand Slam and a World Cup victory.

McGeechan said: "He played both sides of the scrum but he was more of a tighthead. Completely unflappable, Jason was never in any trouble. Technically, he was superb and temperamentally he was sound, a huge character on and off the pitch."

A towering figure in English rugby, Johnson's leadership as lock inspired his team to greatness. Captaining England to their historic 2003 World Cup win, he exemplified determination and resilience on the field.

McGeechan said: "I think he defined an era, both for forward play and for the performances of the teams he represented."

Australian rugby's talismanic figure, Eales combined athleticism with intelligence. As a lock and occasional goal-kicker, his influence extended beyond the field, leading the Wallabies to World Cup glory and numerous Bledisloe Cup triumphs.

McGeechan said: "A two-time Rugby World Cup-winner with the Wallabies in 1991 and 1999, captaining his side to victory over France in the second of those finals. A lot of the ‘number fives’ that have followed him play the way they do because of the type of game Eales set."

A linchpin of England's renowned back row, Hill epitomized versatility and reliability. Known for his tireless work rate and defensive prowess, he played a crucial role in England's World Cup victory in 2003.

McGeechan said: "One of the easier selections, if I’m honest. Hill seemed to know almost instinctively where to be and when."

New Zealand's rugby icon, McCaw redefined the role of openside flanker. With unmatched skill in turnovers and leadership qualities, he guided the All Blacks to back-to-back World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015.

McGeechan said: "Having picked Richard Hill at blindside, the thought of pairing him with Richie McCaw at openside genuinely excites me. Can you imagine those two together? The opposition would not stand a chance. "

A dynamic No. 8 for the All Blacks, Brooke's flair and athleticism set him apart. Renowned for his powerful runs and audacious skill, he left an indelible mark on rugby, contributing to New Zealand's successes in the 1990s.

McGeechan said: "One of the toughest choices of the lot. Maybe the toughest. His ability to bring others into the game, his ability to stay connected in the game himself, popping up repeatedly through different phases; all exemplary. And he dropped goals of course. A true original."