Dream Team: Alex Goode – England and Saracens full-back
2. Tom Youngs – He’s done so much in just one year, to go from where he was to being out with the Lions. I’ve never seen a guy hit a ruck so hard. He’s also a great carrier.
3. Boris Stankovich – He’s got to have the best outfit ever. Shin pads, shoulder pads, strapping, gum shield, you name it he’s got it. I’ve never seen him make a tackle with his arms in my life. He’s also there for after-match entertainment.
4. Steve Borthwick – A great captain, leader and player. He never stops working for the team. You want to go into battle with him.
5. Hugh Vyvyan – Any man who slots a 45-metre drop-goal from the second row gets in for me. He also won a Sevens tournament playing with his six brothers.
6. Richard Hill – Playing in his last game was an absolute privilege. He went about his business very quietly but he was unbelievable.
7. David Pocock – He’s an unbelievable player who can change a game in moments. He’s also clever and strong at the back.
8. Hugo Ellis – He’ll never hit a ruck but he’s the best guy I know at claiming the cross-field kick. He scores hatfuls of tries and he’s an absolute crow bar. It looks like he’s been doing pretty well for Rosslyn Park.
9. Neil de Kock – He’s the fittest man in world rugby, even at the age of 34, and the nicest guy as well. He works so well for the team, it’s unbelievable.
10. Glen Jackson – He had to be good because he was so slow. He was the master for us at Sarries. He bossed everyone at the back and in the forwards.
11. Rupeni Caucaunibuca – He’s the most naturally gifted player ever. If you get him fit and on the pitch he’s an absolutely ridiculous runner. An honourable mention to Chris Lombaard, who I played with at Cambridge.
12. Aaron Mauger – He always seemed to have plenty of time on the ball and never made a bad decision. As the games got bigger he got better.
13. Robbie Fruean – A centre with the Crusaders in New Zealand, he’s so big and quick. We played against him when he was Young Player of the Year at the U19 RWC.
14. Sailosi Tagicakibau – Never fails to beat the first man. He’s the standout player in the Premiership over the last five years. Every time you go against him you know it is going to be a tough match.
15. Thomas Castaignede – He could change a game in seconds with that unique French flair. His attitude to training was to put his feet up and have a glass of wine.
