The 10 Greatest Locks in Rugby History (Ranked 10-1)

Tuesday, 23 September 2025 at 17:18

byRugby Rucker

Rugby’s lock forwards are the unsung titans of the game—towering in stature, relentless in the ruck, and often the difference between victory and defeat.

From the lineout to the breakdown, these 10 players redefined what it means to dominate the set piece. Here’s our definitive ranking of the greatest locks to ever play the game.

Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.

10. Maro Itoje – “The Modern Maestro”

Club: Saracens
Country: England
Height: 1.98m
Caps: 93
Tours: 3× British & Irish Lions (2017, 2021, 2025)
Achievements: 3× Six Nations Champion (2016, 2017, 2020), 1× Grand Slam (2016), 1× Rugby World Cup runner-up (2019)

Maro Itoje has emerged as one of the most formidable locks in world rugby. Known for his athleticism and leadership, he captained the British & Irish Lions in 2025, becoming the first Black player to do so. His impact on the field is matched by his influence off it, making him a modern-day icon.

9. Victor Matfield – “The Lineout Whisperer”

Club: Blue Bulls, Northampton Saints
Country: South Africa
Height: 1.98m
Caps: 127
Achievements: Rugby World Cup winner (2007), 3× Super Rugby champion, 3× Currie Cup winner

Victor Matfield was renowned for his exceptional lineout skills and tactical acumen. His ability to read the game and disrupt opposition set pieces made him a cornerstone of the Springbok's success in the 2000s.

8. Paul O’Connell – “The Irish Colossus”

Club: Munster
Country: Ireland
Height: 1.98m
Caps: 108
Achievements: 2× Six Nations Grand Slam winner (2009, 2015), 2× European Rugby Champions Cup winner, 3× United Rugby Championship winner

Paul O’Connell was the epitome of Irish rugby's heart and soul. A towering presence in the lineout and a relentless tackler, his leadership was instrumental in Ireland's 2009 Grand Slam victory.

7. Alun Wyn Jones – “The Iron Man of Wales”

Club: Ospreys
Country: Wales
Height: 1.98m
Caps: 170+
Achievements: 5× Six Nations Champion, 3× Grand Slam winner (2008, 2012, 2019), British & Irish Lions series winner (2013)

Alun Wyn Jones' longevity and consistency at the highest level are unparalleled. His leadership and resilience have been pivotal in Wales' and the Lions' successes over the years.

6. Colin Meads – “Pinetree of the Pitches”

Club: King Country, Waikato
Country: New Zealand
Height: 1.98m
Caps: 55
Achievements: New Zealand Player of the Century (1999), 3× Super Rugby champion, 3× Tri-Nations winner

Colin Meads was a formidable force in New Zealand rugby. His aggressive playing style and leadership on the field earned him a place among the game's greats.

5. Willie John McBride – “The Gentle Giant”

Club: Munster
Country: Ireland
Height: 1.92m
Caps: 63
Achievements: British & Irish Lions series winner (1974), 5× Lions Test series captain, World Rugby Hall of Fame inductee

Willie John McBride's leadership and tactical nous were instrumental in the Lions' historic unbeaten tour of South Africa in 1974. His legacy continues to inspire generations.

4. Brodie Retallick – “The Silent Destroyer”

Club: Chiefs
Country: New Zealand
Height: 2.04m
Caps: 120+
Achievements: Rugby World Cup winner (2015), World Rugby Player of the Year (2014), 3× Super Rugby champion

Brodie Retallick's combination of size, skill, and intelligence makes him one of the most complete locks in modern rugby. His performances for the All Blacks have set new standards for the position.

3. John Eales – “Nobody’s Perfect… Almost”

Club: Queensland Reds
Country: Australia
Height: 2.01m
Caps: 86
Achievements: Rugby World Cup winner (1991, 1999), 2× Tri-Nations winner, 2× John Eales Medal recipient

John Eales was a versatile lock who could dominate in the lineout and contribute significantly to the scoreboard. His leadership and composure under pressure were key to Australia's success in the 1990s.

2. Martin Johnson – “The English Enforcer”

Club: Leicester Tigers
Country: England
Height: 1.98m
Caps: 105
Achievements: Rugby World Cup winner (2003), 3× Six Nations Champion, British & Irish Lions series winner (1997)

Martin Johnson's imposing presence and leadership were central to England's 2003 World Cup triumph. His ability to inspire and lead by example set him apart as one of rugby's greats.

1. Eben Etzebeth – “The Modern Colossus”

Club: Stormers
Country: South Africa
Height: 2.03m
Caps: 130+
Achievements: Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023), 3× Rugby Championship winner, Springboks' most capped player

Eben Etzebeth's combination of physicality, skill, and leadership makes him the benchmark for modern locks. His performances continue to inspire and set standards for future generations.