The ten greatest flankers of all-time (Ranked 10-1)

From breakdown specialists to inspirational leaders, the greatest flankers have shaped the modern game in different ways.

Here, we rank the best to ever play the role, celebrating those who combined physicality, skill, and influence to leave a lasting mark on international rugby game history.

Few players have had as much influence at the breakdown as David Pocock. Fiercely competitive and highly intelligent, he excelled at winning turnovers at key moments and disrupting organised attacks.

His impact went well beyond rugby. He was a strong advocate for environmental and humanitarian causes and was widely respected for his principles as well as his performances.

A two time John Eales Medallist, he played a major role in Australia reaching the 2015 Rugby World Cup final.

Fun fact: In the 2022 Australian federal election, Pocock stood as an independent candidate for one of the Australian Capital Territory Senate seats.

Thierry Dusautoir was defined by determination and discipline. Known as the “Dark Destroyer,” he became one of the greatest defensive players in rugby history, combining relentless work rate with strong leadership.

His 38 tackle performance against New Zealand at the 2007 World Cup is one of the sport’s most famous individual displays. In 2011 he captained France to within one point of winning the Rugby World Cup final, earning Man of the Match in that game and later being named World Rugby Player of the Year.

Fun fact: He holds the record for most tackles in a single international match, with 38 against New Zealand in 2007.

George Smith made the difficult aspects of rugby look simple. He was outstanding in carrying, tackling, and breakdown work, performing with consistency and control.

Across more than 100 Test matches, he became one of Australia’s most dependable and respected players. His long career and influence on the openside flanker role continue to be felt in the modern game.

Fun fact: He is the second most capped Wallaby forward behind Nathan Sharpe and the second most capped flanker in rugby union.

Sam Warburton was a natural leader. He captained both Wales and the British and Irish Lions and was widely trusted by teammates for his calm authority.

Injuries shortened his career, but his reputation remained strong. He was known for tireless effort, excellence at the breakdown, and a professional attitude that earned respect across the sport.

Fun fact: As a youngster, Warburton played football and was school teammates with Gareth Bale.

Jean Pierre Rives was one of rugby’s most charismatic figures. His energy, fearless style, and distinctive presence made him a symbol of French rugby flair.

He inspired teammates and fans throughout his international career. After retiring, he became a full time artist, working as both a painter and sculptor with exhibitions around the world.

Fun fact: After rugby, Rives focused entirely on art and continues to exhibit internationally.

Francois Pienaar left a legacy that went far beyond rugby. As captain of South Africa’s 1995 Rugby World Cup winning team, he became a symbol of unity during a major period of national change.

His partnership with Nelson Mandela became one of sport’s most iconic images. While he was a strong flanker and leader on the field, his wider impact came from what the team represented for South Africa.

Fun fact: He was portrayed by Matt Damon in the film Invictus (2009).

Pieter-Steph du Toit is known for relentless work rate and physical presence. He consistently covers huge ground, defends strongly, and sets high standards for his team.

He has been twice named World Rugby Player of the Year and played a key role in South Africa’s success, including a standout performance in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.

Fun fact: He comes from a long family tradition of the same name, with relatives also involved in South African rugby.

Richard Hill was quiet, intelligent, and highly dependable. He played a key role in England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup winning team, focusing on structure, balance, and consistency.

He was not a flashy player, but he was essential to the effectiveness of the back row, allowing more attacking teammates to thrive.

Fun fact: He is a distant relative of film director Peter Jackson through his maternal family line.

Michael Jones combined speed, intelligence, and skill in a way that reshaped expectations of a flanker. He stood out for his athletic style during an era that often focused on physicality.

He was also known for his strong Christian faith, including his decision not to play on Sundays, which made him a role model beyond sport.

Fun fact: A bronze statue of Jones celebrating his 1987 Rugby World Cup try stands outside Eden Park in Auckland.

Richie McCaw is widely regarded as one of the greatest flankers in rugby history. He combined leadership, durability, and exceptional competitive drive over a long international career.

As captain, he led New Zealand through one of its most dominant eras, including back to back Rugby World Cup victories. His consistency and calm leadership defined his legacy.

Fun fact: He holds the records for most international wins and most matches as captain in rugby union.

Since rugby turned professional in 1995, England have had a host of captains lead the team through World Cups, Grand Slams, Lions tours and some of the biggest moments in the sport's history.

From World Cup-winning legends to short-term stand-ins, how many England captains of the professional era can you name?

You have five minutes to name them all. Good luck!?