Sonny Bill Williams omits Dan Carter and Richie McCaw from his dream team

The New Zealand legend was asked by Australian website Sporting News to list the best players he played alongside or against in a dream team .

Incredibly, Williams couldn't find a place for former team-mates Dan Carter and Richie McCaw, who played a combined 260 test matches for the All Blacks.

Williams praises Cooper's incredible talent on the field, highlighting his ability to create magic out of nothing. Despite the lack of recognition, Williams acknowledges Cooper's prowess and impact.

Williams said: "You just have to watch some of his highlights videos on the football field to realise what a talent he is. He’s another guy who can just create something out of nothing and I don’t think gets the credit he deserves."

illiams admires Beale's dynamic playstyle, citing him as one of the best in the World Cup. Recognizing Beale's skillset, Williams emphasizes his on-field excellence and applauds his off-field professionalism.

Williams said: "He’s a player I’ve loved watching over the years and I don’t think he gets the acknowledgement he deserves. He was one the best players – if not the best player – for the Australian team in the World Cup. Just his skillset, and you can tell that he’s got his stuff together off the field as well."

Having played in France, Williams lauds Dusautoir not only as an exceptional player but also as a leader who rallies his team in crucial moments. Williams expresses deep admiration for Dusautoir's performance in high-stakes matches.

Williams said: “From my time in France I’d have to say, Thierry Dusautoir. He wasn't just an amazing player, but you can see the way he rallies his troops and how he performed in those big games. He’s someone I really admire.”

Williams said: “He’s someone that stood out because even when I didn’t play rugby I knew who he was. You just have to go back and watch some highlights of him to see how crazy what he did was. You don’t see players these days running through ten blokes on the way to the tryline.”

Williams considers himself fortunate to have played alongside Wilkinson, emphasizing the dedication and commitment the English legend displayed at the peak of his powers. Williams acknowledges learning invaluable lessons from Wilkinson's unwavering devotion to his craft.

Williams said: “I’m lucky enough to say I’ve played with Jonny Wilkinson and have seen the commitment that he had. When I played with him, he was pretty much at the height of his powers, but the way he dedicated himself to his craft was unbelievable and I learnt a lot from him.”