Dream Team with Glyn Hughes

The Hong Kong and former Wasps, Northampton, London Welsh, Leeds & Moseley player chooses the best XV he had played with or against.

1. Soane Tonga’uiha – Huge frame with the softest of handling skills. Would pop up with an X-factor moment to change games.

2. Dylan Hartley – Couldn’t be more positive in his approach to the young guys coming through when I joined Saints from school. Genuine leader that was selfless to club and country, and influential in the success of both.

3. Brian Mujati – Couldn’t look further than the final part of the famous Saints front three. A real powerhouse, cornerstone of the scrum and memorable moments in the loose.

4. Jevon Groves – Valley boy lost in Hong Kong who has been a big part of the success at Hong Kong FC over recent years. A true competitor with great game understanding. Currently coaching HK Sevens and no doubt more to come in his coaching career.

5. Courtney Lawes – Northampton born-and-bred legend who has gone on to conquer so much. Laid back and very approachable, honed his game into one of the best at what he does.

6. Samu Manoa – Probably the biggest impact signing in Prem history. Incredible athlete both sides of the ball.

7. Ryan Hodson – London Welsh skipper who led the team very well in tough circumstances the season the club was liquidated. Talented player that would have been a great addition to any Prem squad.

8. Josh Hrstich – Hong Kong captain, leader, legend. Ably leading the charge in the next chapter of Hong Kong rugby. Never shy to give full credit to the boys and humbly sweep the sheds.

9. Craig Hampson – Livewire scrum-half crucial in the free-flowing, attacking rugby during my time at Leeds. Calibre to have been a Prem stalwart.

10. Stephen Myler – Guiding force and Mr Reliable at Saints, the fact he’s still going strong years later speaks volumes for him longevity and ability. A great support to me as a young 10 coming through.

11. Jonah Holmes – Freakish on and off the field. Incredible player who scores tries for fun and deserved more international opportunities in my book.

12. Ben Axten-Burrett – Well-rounded centre for HKFC and Hong Kong who’s able to operate as a carrier, distributor and kicking option. Another player contributing to recent domestic success although it’s a tough ask as to who’s grumpier, him or his bulldog.

13. Elliot Daly – Potentially the most gifted player I’ve ever seen. All round skillset with a monster left peg.

14. Kyle Evans – Dynamite. Can create something from nothing. Would have set the top flight alight had he been given a chance and it’s good to see him with an opportunity in Rugby League now, with Wakefield and Wales.

15. Bruce Reihana – Walked on water at Franklin’s Gardens, and had the presence to match. The guy could do it all: running threat, dominant tackler, kick goals, and skipper. Made a big impression on a fresh kid out of school.