"No, Sir Clive" - Sam Warburton named the best Rugby World Cup pundit 

In anticipation of the event, our colleagues at the Telegraph have undertaken the task of ranking the top rugby pundits. The outcome of this ranking has brought about some unexpected results.

To ensure impartiality and prevent any conflicts of interest, three esteemed Telegraph columnists, namely Brian Moore, Maggie Alphonsi, and Sir Ian McGeechan, were declared ineligible for inclusion in this particular list.

Ojo, a former England international rugby player, made his mark as a versatile and skillful winger. He spent the majority of his club career with London Irish, where he became a club legend. Ojo earned several caps for the England national team, showcasing his speed and try-scoring ability on the international stage.

They wrote: "Not the most energetic of pundits but his sangfroid is to be admired. Rarely flustered, the former England wing is comfortable as either rugby expert or broadcaster in his own right. Possesses plenty of knowledge to impart on the viewer but that, due to his previous career, is almost solely reserved for the wider, loose exchanges."

Fitzpatrick is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby hookers of all time. Hailing from New Zealand, he had a remarkable career as a rugby player and captain. Fitzpatrick's leadership and excellence in the set pieces made him a key figure in the All Blacks' success. He is a World Cup winner and is celebrated for his contributions to rugby on and off the field.

They wrote: "Being one of the all-time great hookers and captains helps. When he talks, people listen. The fact he has stayed involved in professional rugby – with formal administrative roles at both Scarlets and Harlequins – is a big feather in his cap, too. A welcome and refreshing southern-hemisphere presence in this list."

Barclay, a Scottish rugby stalwart, established himself as a formidable openside flanker. He not only represented Scotland but also captained the national team, showcasing his leadership qualities. Barclay was known for his tenacity at the breakdown and his ability to read the game. His rugby career spanned both club and international levels, earning him respect and recognition.

They wrote; "Another openside who skippered his country, benefits from having mastered the nuances of the breakdown, and another who is not afraid to tell it how it is. Barclay has established himself as a knowledgeable, impartial analyst without the overblown bravado of some of his peers. Understated, sage and opinionated - he should be an arresting listen as he jumps from BBC to ITV."

Grayson, a former England international fly-half, had a distinguished rugby career that bridged the transition from amateur to professional rugby. He played a pivotal role for Northampton Saints and contributed significantly to their success. Grayson's rugby knowledge and expertise are highly regarded, and his passion for the sport continues through his punditry work.

They wrote: "A World Cup-winner with a long playing career straddling amateur and professional eras means he is as experienced as anyone on the punditry circuit. Crucially, with two sons as current professional players, the former fly-half follows the intricacies of the modern game. A voice full of northern soul with empathetic, soothing notes – like your favourite uncle – a shame he’ll only be heard on radio."

Warburton is a rugby legend from Wales, known for his outstanding skills as a flanker and his remarkable leadership as a captain. He led the Welsh national team to multiple Six Nations titles and served as the British and Irish Lions captain. Warburton's career was marked by his prowess at the breakdown, making him one of the most respected figures in modern rugby.

They wrote: "Rugby punditry’s standard-bearer is head and shoulders in front of the chasing pack. Clear and concise, a breakdown and contact-area encyclopaedia, with an assured, authoritative delivery which leaves viewers informed and entertained. A highly respected player and now pundit, who dabbled in the coaching scene, Warburton is not afraid to criticise or opine on issues in the game no matter how controversial."