WORLD XV: Smith, Folau, Hogg? Who is the world's best fullback?

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by Rugby Rucker

Friday, 04 August 2017 at 10:38

byRugby Rucker

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Starting with the fullback position, which we know is a tough one to pick, we're asking you to choose who you think's the BEST in the world from our six-man shortlist

Over the next couple of days, we will be running votes for every position until we have the supporters best team.

All of the players on the list are credible and worthy of being the first name on that team sheet with the number fifteen jersey.

So get voting for who you believe deserves to be in the RUCK World XV...

You can skip to the poll HERE or scroll through the contenders before making an informed decision.

1. Israel Folau - Australia

One of the most athletically gifted players in the game, a person of Folau’s speed, size, strength and stature could apply his arsenal to nearly any sport and still exude all the qualities of a world class talent.

While perhaps still prone to the odd error and frailties in defence, there is arguably no-one more clinical under the high ball or terrifying when in all-out attack mode.

The Six Nations player of the tournament for back-to-back years, Hogg was in pole position for the Lions No. 15 Test shirt until his unfortunate collision with Murray which ended his tour.

Hogg’s electrifying speed and insatiable attitude see him serve as a genuine threat whenever he has ball in hand while also being a fearless leader in defence, putting his body on the line time-and-time again.

Smith can play across the wing, centre, and fullback. Utility may be the essence of the man, but he is without doubt rated as one of the worlds best fullbacks.

A proven try-scorer who, like many of his compatriots, is blessed with a knack of making the right decisions at the right time.

Although Williams is still prone to the mistake, his devastating burst of speed and sidestep make him possibly the best counter attacker in rugby today.

Lions fans certainly won't be forgetting his break for Sean O'Brien's try in the first Test against the All Blacks in a hurry.

5. Israel Dagg - New Zealand

The speedster started all three Tests against the Lions and when you consider the calibre of player left out during the series, that speaks volumes for how highly the Crusaders star is rated. A potent counter-attacker, can leave defenders rooted by a blistering sidestep and can defend relentlessly when needed.

A potent counter-attacker, can leave defenders rooted by a blistering sidestep and can defend relentlessly when needed.

6. Mike Brown - England

Not someone we expected to have on this list. However, following a solid Six Nations, where England retained their crown, Brown went on to be one of Eddie Jones' star performers as an under-strength England recorded a 2-0 series win against Argentina on their travels.

He's always been a fantastic carrier of the ball, but if he can continue to add offloads to his game he'll become an even stronger weapon for club and country going forward.