Saracens - Senior Squad Senior Squad Saracens - Senior Squad Chris Ashton Previous Clubs: Wigan Warriors; Northampton Saints Honours: England, England Saxons, England Rugby League Debut: vs London Irish (01.09.12) Total Appearances: 97 Player Sponsor: Smart IPX/Franke Coffee Bio: A prolific try scorer, Chris Ashton’s performances in a Saracens shirt since his arrival from rivals Northampton Saints in the summer of 2012 have underlined his reputation as one of European rugby’s deadliest finishers. Heading into the 2016/17 season, only Irish legend Brian O’Driscoll (33) and Toulouse stalwart Vincent Clare (36) are ahead of Ashton in the pantheon of European try scorers, with the Sarries wing racing to 31 tries in just 50 games.

In Saracens journey to their first ever European final in the 2013/14 Heineken Cup Ashton scored a record 11 tries, scoring two tries in his side’s demolition of ASM Clermont Auvergne in April 2014 to eclipse the 17-year record of 10 tries in a season set by Brive wing Sebastien Carrat in 1996-97. A deadly poacher, Ashton has played a key role in Saracens Premiership wins in 2015 and 2016, and the club’s maiden Champions Cup title. A career that began in Rugby League with his hometown club Wigan Warriors, Ashton switched codes in 2007 to join the Saints where he broke the Championship try scoring record (39 tries in 25 games) in his first season in the 15-man game. He was voted Premiership Player of the Year in 2010, and has won 39 England caps, scoring 19 tries.

Richard Barrington Player Sponsor: John Anderson Hire Bio: Richard Barrington arrived as a virtual unknown, leaving Championship basement dwellers Jersey in the summer of 2013 to link up with Saracens. In that time, Barrington has carved out a reputation as a fine scrummager, and dependable prop forward with a bourgeoning potential in the game. Having shared the loosehead duties with Mako Vunipola and Rhys Gill in previous seasons, Barrington will have more responsibility within the Double Champions’ squad with Gill’s move to Cardiff Blues over the summer. A former Gloucester Academy player, Barrington started his career with Channel Island outfit Jersey RFC. A series of fine performance for the Championship side saw him catch the eye of the Saracens coaching staff and he has already pulled on a Sarries shirt having been part of the club’s squad for the LV=Cup clash against Worcester Warriors in 2012. Since then, ‘Bazza’ as he is affectionately known within the Saracens camp, career has kicked on and has appeared in five finals for the Men in Black, collecting two Aviva Premiership medals and an LV=Cup and Champions Cup medal in the process.

Brad Barritt Player Sponsor: FLEXISEQ Bio: Now in his ninth season in Saracens colours, centre Brad Barritt will captain Saracens as they defend both the Aviva Premiership and Champions Cup titles. Granite like toughness, miserly in defence and possessing great vision, Barritt is a key component of the Sarries ‘Wolf-pack’ defence that has dominated European and English rugby in recent seasons. He arrived at Saracens from The Sharks in 2008 on the back of a last-minute loss to The Bulls in the 2007 Super Rugby Grand Final. Since then he has been one of the mainstays of the Saracens squad and was also named the club’s Player of the Season in the 2009/10 campaign. He was also nominated for the Aviva Premiership Player of the Year Award in 2012. In an eight year period he has won 26 England caps, toured Australia with the British and Irish Lions in 2013, won three Premiership titles and led the club to their maiden European Champions Cup title.

On the international stage, his performances for Saracens quickly caught the eye of the national selectors and he was part of the England Saxons touring squad in the summer of 2009 and he went on to produce two excellent displays for the Saxons in friendlies in early 2010. He was called up for England’s tour to Australia and New Zealand later that summer where he played the midweek match against New Zealand Moari before getting his full honours in 2012, and was a key component of Stuart Lancaster’s England team with his Man of the Match display against Australia at Twickenham in 2014 a stand-out memory. In Sarries colours, Barritt’s performances have been inspirational, with the centre captaining the side on multiple occasions in the absence of Alistair Hargreaves. Barritt, who skippered Sarries in 2016 Aviva Premiership and Champions Cup finals, has been confirmed as permanent captain ahead of the 2016/17 campaign.

Marcelo Bosch Player Sponsor: Yourstaff Solutions Bio: A classy, elegant outside centre, with a monster boot from the kicking tee, Bosch has quickly established himself as a fans favourite at Allianz Park. His nerveless last-gasp penalty goal against Racing Metro 92 in the 2015 Champions Cup quarter final in Paris is a memory that will live long with Saracens fans, as the Argentine sent over a trademark long-range effort to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat for the Men in Black in a memorable European tie. Bosch, who can also fill-in at fly-half, or full-back, is a highly experienced international, with the former Belgrano Athletic Club midfielder having represented Los Pumas on 39 occasions before retiring from the national team as Argentina began to enforce a domestic player policy after the 2015 World Cup. He has played a key role in two Rugby World Cup’s (2011 & 2015) for Argentina and has featured heavily in the Rugby Championships. He left Argentina to move to Biarritz in 2006.

He made more than 100 appearances for the Basque club before his move to north London in October 2013. Kelly Brown Player Sponsor: Chase & Partners LLP Bio: As a former Scotland captain, Kelly Brown brings a wealth of experience to the Saracens squad. An industrious back row forward renowned for his work-rate and resilience Brown has enjoyed a highly successful period with Saracens since he departed Glasgow Warriors in the summer of 2010. In his first season at the club he picked up his first Aviva Premiership winners medal, and was a member of the Saracens squad in both the 2015 and 2016 triumphs. As one of the mainstays of the Scottish back row since being named as the SPRA Player of the Season in 2007, his impressive performances for both club and on the world stage saw Saracens move quickly to sign him at the start of the 2010/11 campaign. He made his Scotland debut in 2005 and has been a regular on the international stage ever since having represented his country at U18. U19 and U21 levels.

His pace and power were also evident when he helped Scotland to reach the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup 7s in 2005. He represented Scotland in the 2007 Rugby World Cup and was then made captain of his national team in 2012. Schalk Brits Player Sponsor: Smart IPX/Franke Coffee Bio: Over the last seven seasons Schalk Brits has cemented his reputation as one the Aviva Premiership’s finest ever imports. The inimitable front rower has wowed English rugby ever since his arrival at the beginning of the 2009/10 season, with his caviller approach in the Sarries number two jersey winning him many admirers. Brits, who combines his natural flair with an abrasive approach in the middle of the Saracens pack, and has helped the Men in Black secure three Premiership titles and a maiden Champions Cup win during a highly successful period in north London. Known for his laid back and amiable approach to life, Brits has dovetailed with England hooker Jamie George in recent seasons.

He signed for Saracens at the start of the 2009/10 season, bringing with him a wealth of talent and experience at Super 14 and international level. He joined from The Stormers franchise where he was a regular in the then Super 14s and has also been a mainstay of the Western Province side in the Currie Cup. Brits made his Springbok debut in 2008 and won his last cap in the Green and Gold in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Neil De Kock Player Sponsor: Stephen Thomas Bio: Evergreen scrum half Neil de Kock’s contribution to Saracens since his arrival in the summer of 2006 means the classy halfback will go down as one of the club’s most legendary players. In his first full season with Saracens, Neil de Kock captained the side to a semi-final place in the Heineken Cup and his performances have been just as impressive ever since. It didn’t take the South African international scrum half long to make his mark at Saracens and already he is regarded by many supporters to have been one of the club’s most successful overseas signings.

An example of that came in the 2006/07 season – his first with Saracens – when only a few months into his spell he was offered an extended contract. He made an instant impression on the side following his arrival from Western Province in October of that season. Such was his impact in his first year that he was the players’ choice to lead the side as captain for the 2007/08 season. He was a regular with the South African province and also with the Super 14 side The Stormers and is widely regarded as one of the most talented scrum halves in South Africa where his passing, kicking game and all round awareness saw him win 10 caps for the Springboks after making his debut in 2001 against Italy. He was also part of the country’s 2003 World Cup squad. Petrus Du Plessis Player Sponsor: Collect Services Bio: Du Plessis arrived at Saracens from Nottingham in March 2009 as a relative unknown following a string of stand-out performances for the Championship side that caught the eye of the Saracens coaching staff.

He has since gone on to make his name as one of the country’s finest scrummagers and the cornerstone of the Saracens pack. The South African born, but now English qualified prop served his rugby apprenticeship by playing his way up the lower leagues of English rugby. He arrived in England as a 19 year-old to take up an offer from Liverpool-St Helens Rugby Club before moving on to a number of traditional Northern clubs in the lower leagues years whilst studying for a 1st Class Honour degree in Physiotherapy at Salford University. His impressive performances at every level earned him a move to Saracens after an injury crisis to the Saracens’ front row forced them to bring him in as cover. He showed his worth straight away becoming first choice starter and an essential part of the Saracens pack ever since. In his time at Saracens he has been at the heart of three Premiership Championships and one European Championship. Nathan Earle Player Sponsor: Smart IPX/Franke Coffee Systems Bio: Having been with Saracens since the age of 14, Nathan is the next talent in line to graduate from the Saracens academy and make an impression on the senior squad.

With his Sarries debut coming in 2012 as an academy player, he has progressed to a full time member of the senior squad for the 2016/17 season. Following his starring role in England U20s successful Junior World Championship in 2014, which saw him score 6 tries in 5 games, he was nominated for the 2014 IRB Junior Player of the Year award. Unfortunately he was side-lined for the following season after rupturing his Achilles in the season opener of his loan move to Bedford Blues. The electric winger recovered fantastically and is now quicker than ever. Recently back from a successful loan spell at London Scottish he is determined to follow in the footsteps of his academy peers by making an impression on the senior squad in the coming season. He is currently on loan with Canterbury in New Zealand. Will Fraser Player Sponsor: Learmonth Family Bio: Having first joined Saracens at just 14 years-old, Will Fraser is yet another product of the Saracens academy that has gone on to excel at the senior level.

Fraser is another player who has benefitted from being dual registered with Championship side Bedford Blues and also had a spell with the Western Province Academy in 2009. He first made the step up in the 2011/12 season following a series of international call-ups and injuries, but took the chance with both hands and ended the season as a regular in the back row. In that time he has been feature of the Sarries back row through some of their most successful seasons. A fan favourite, not only on the pitch, but off it as well for his inspirational charity fundraising endeavours. Most notable of these is the £10,000 he raised for Great Ormond Street Hospital by shaving off his infamous beard following 2016 Premiership Final. On the pitch he is firmly on the England radar having played for the Saxons. Only a series of unfortunately times injuries have kept him from full England honours but he is becoming harder and harder to ignore as one of England’s genuine number 7 options.

Jim Hamilton Player Sponsor: Bernard, Kathryn and Ciara King Bio: Born in England with a Glaswegian father, the proudly Scottish second row is a natural leader who has represented Scotland 63 times despite playing for England at U19s level. Educated in Coventry, he only started to play rugby from the age of 15 when he joined the Barker’s Butts club that helped launch the careers of former Saracens, Bath, England and British & Irish Lions lock Danny Grewcock and Leicester Tigers, England and British & Irish Lions flanker Neil Back. Jim has become an experienced Premiership campaigner having made his professional debut for Leicester Tigers in 2003, as well as having a three year spell at Gloucester. His illustrious career has also seen him play North of the border for Edinburgh, as well as across the channel for Montpellier. His first cap for Scotland came in November 2006, where he came off the bench in a 48-6 victory over Romania and in doing so became the 1,000th player to represent Scotland.

Since his debut he has been a mainstay of the Scottish pack, representing his country in both the 2007 and 2011 World Cups. His retirement from international rugby in 2015 has allowed him to focus on Sarries, where he plays a vital role in one of the most squad dominant second rows in Europe. Matt Hankin Player Sponsor: Rift Group Bio: A key member of the 2013 England U20s team who beat Wales in the JWC Final, Hankin is yet another product of the Saracens Academy which he graduated from in 2014. Having been encouraged to play rugby by his brother and grandfather as a 10 year old, he made his senior debut for Saracens in 2014. His real breakthrough came in 2014/15’s victorious LV= Anglo-Welsh cup campaign where his performances saw him nominated for the breakthrough player of the year award in the competition. His aim now is to push on from this and make his mark on the Premiership squad.

Maro Itoje Player Sponsor: Cavendish Brooke Bio: The rise of Maro Itoje between 2014 and 2016 has been meteoric. In 2014 the lock captained England U20s to only their second ever Junior World Championship, whilst also making his senior debut for Saracens later that season. All the while he has had the added distraction of studying for a degree in Politics alongside his rugby. Since his debut, the natural leader has captained Saracens to victory in the Anglo-Welsh Cup, whilst becoming a key member of the first team for both Saracens and England. During his time as a regular starter he has also won two Premiership titles, one European Champions Cup and a Six Nations Grand Slam with England. After playing a key role in England’s victorious tour on Australia in 2016 he has amassed a 28 game, and counting, streak of winning every match he has started in for both Saracens and England, extending back to May 2015. As a graduate from the Saracens Academy he had the benefit of learning his trade from his hero, Steve Borthwick.

Since Borthwick’s retirement in 2014, the apprentice has surely become the master with Itoje emerging as one of the premier players in World rugby in 2016. The season saw him win accolades such as Land Rover Discovery of the season, Man of the Match in the European Champions Cup final and European Player of the Year. Michael Rhodes Player Sponsor: Duncan Sinclair Bio: South African loose forward Michael Rhodes impressed in his first season with the Men in Black after joining the north Londoners in the summer of 2015 from South African Super Rugby franchise, Stormers. A tough tackling and durable back rower, Rhodes made 27 appearances for Saracens in his first season with the north Londoners, and played a key role in the club’s double winning campaign - starting in the Aviva Premiership and European Champions Cup finals. Rhodes started his professional career with the Sharks in Durban, and played for the Lions before joining the Stormers. He signed a three year contract with Saracens in the summer to remain at Allianz Park until 2019. Player Sponsor: Steve & Jane Greaves Bio: Hard hitting hooker Jared Saunders is entering his eighth season with Saracens.

A product of the club’s famed academy, the South African front rower is vying for a spot with Schalk Brits, Jamie George and Scott Spurling. Jared arrived at Saracens in 2010 from the Johannesburg outfit, Lions. Having spent time at Old Albanians, Plymouth Albion and Bedford Blues, Saunders was a key member of the victorious 2014/15 Anglo-Welsh Cup triumph. Saunders was converted into a loosehead early into his career with the Club, but reverted back to his accustomed role of hooker to bolster Saracens ranks for the No2 jersey. Committed, abrasive and feisty around the park, Saunders is an important squad player for the Club. Ben Spencer Player Sponsor: Neil & Alison Pearson Bio: Ben Spencer is undoubtedly one of the games brightest prospects. A metronomic goal kicker, the Stockport born halfback is a scrumhalf who loves to dictate the tempo of a game.

Since arriving at the club in 2011 as a relative unknown from Cambridge RFC, Spencer quickly established himself as a name for the future with a series of composed displays for the club with experienced duo Neil de Kock and Richard Wigglesworth side-lined with injuries. He impressed in pre-season with performances against Toulon and Bedford Blues to earn a full time contract and he continued to perform at the highest level in both the Premiership and Heineken Cup. It was a whirlwind year for the young scrum half who made 21 appearances and also featured for England Saxons and was part of England’s Junior World Championship squad in 2012. An England Saxons call-up duly followed and since Spencer has been a key player in Saracens' LV= Cup campaigns. This season he has broken into the senior squad and was included in Eddie Jones' England EPS squad for the first time. Spencer is a product of Devon college Ivybridge, which has produced players such as ex-Saracens lock and Bath captain Stuart Hooper, Pau flank Steffon Armitage and Exeter Chiefs duo Dave Ewers and Sam Hill.

Scott Spurling Player Sponsor: The Donner Family Bio: Scott Spurling is looking to kick on in the 2016/17 season after an injury hit period has side-lined the promising hooker. An England U20s JWC winner in 2013 alongside fellow Academy forward Matt Hankin, Scott has been regular within the Saracens Storm side as his development continued at partner club Bedford Blues as well as making a series of appearances for the Club in the 2013/14 LV=Cup. Spurling announced himself on the big stage during a Help for Heroes Charity match at Twickenham, where the fleet footed hooker raced away for a 60m try rounding former Wallaby back Joe Roff in the process. Immediate comparisons to Sarries hooker Schalk Brits followed after his wonder try, and his style of play is very much akin to the Men in Black’s star Springbok hooker.

Tim Streather Player Sponsor: The Goods Bio: Prolific try scorer Tim Streather joined Saracens in the summer of 2013 from Championship club Nottingham where he scored 32 tries in 69 games In his first season Streather made 13 appearances scoring a try against Clermont Auvergne at Twickenham Stadium in the Heineken Cup semi-final. At home at either centre of the wing, he made his Nottingham debut in 2009 and went on to be named the club’s Player of the Year in his debut season. He joined Saracens in the summer of 2013 and made his debut for the Club against London Wasps at Adams Park in the LV=Cup. He was a key member of the Club’s A-League success in 2014/15 and was also at the heart of the Anglo-Welsh triumph that year. Streather kicked off the 2015/16 season with a try against Sale Sharks in the opening round of the Premiership, and remains a dependable option for Mark McCall for the outside back places.

Duncan Taylor Player Sponsor: The Haslam Family Bio: During Saracens’ double-winning season, Scotland international Duncan Taylor firmly established himself as one of Europe’s finest outside backs. Winning the Club’s Players Player of the Season award in 2015/16 underlined the all-action centres standing within the squad as one of Saracens most potent attacking options. The versatile back, who has featured for Saracens at centre, wing and full back, joined the club from Bedford Blues as a dual registered player at the start of the 2011/12 season. He continued his impressive form for Saracens during the 2013/14 season, with the rangy midfielder continuing to excel at both domestic and international level. The centre had an impressive 2012/13 season for Saracens that saw him initially make his international debut for Scotland A before being awarded a full cap for his country on their summer tour to South Africa. Since then, Taylor has cemented himself as a Scotland regular, with his 2016 Six Nations form receiving high praise from Scotland Head Coach, Vern Cotter. Taylor is used to flying under the radar.

His childhood was split between England, Scotland and Australia following his father, pharmaceutical salesman. He never made it on to a county representative team let alone the books of a professional club. He took the long way round into professional rugby. Playing at Olney, Taylor was invited to train by Bedford. That led to a contract and another invitation, this time to train at Saracens and he hasn’t looked back since. Nick Tompkins Player Sponsor: Charles Taylor InsureTech Bio: The summer of 2016 saw Nick Tompkins excel for the England Saxons during their tour of South Africa. Tompkins has been stranger to representing his country at age-group level as he was a key member of England’s U20 Junior World Championship success in 2014 and helped the U20s to the final in 2015. A flanker as a youngster, Tompkins made the move to centre in age-group rugby.

He made his first team debut for Saracens against Leicester Tigers in the LV= Cup in October 2012 and two months later he played in the Aviva A League final against Harlequins, but started his first game for the north London Club against London Wasps at Adams Park in 2013 in what was a try scoring performance for the Sidcup-born midfielder Jackson Wray Player Sponsor: Ken & Sheila Gooding Bio: A key member of the Saracens squad, back row Jackson Wray is knocking on the door of Eddie Jones’ England set-up after a series of fine performances in Saracens pack of forwards. A member of the Class of 2008 academy that includes Owen Farrell, Will Fraser, Jamie George and George Kruis, Wray’s development from promising youngster to top class Premiership player has been expedient. A graduate of the Saracens Academy and Oaklands College programme, Wray burst on to the scene in the first half of the 2010/11 season with a man of the match performance in front of the TV cameras at Bath.

The same season, he was dual registered with Bedford Blues and he benefited from the club’s partnership with the championship club and gained valuable experience. Since his time at Goldington Road Wray has become a vital member of Saracens squad, with the No.8 or blindeside flanker a fixture in Mark McCall’s side throughout the 2013/14 season. Wray’s fine form in both the Aviva Premiership and in Europe saw the Essex-raised back-rower called up to Stuart Lancaster’s 55-man England training squad in the summer of 2014. Owen Farrell Player Sponsor: Emma, Adam & Dani Berg Bio: As the son of a rugby league great and former England centre Andy, there were always expectations that Owen would have a successful rugby playing career. However, few could have predicted just how successful it would be as he has gone on to be a crucial player for club and country with his game management and goal-kick prowess, as well as becoming a British and Irish Lion in 2013.

He first made his debut for Saracens in 2008 he was just 17 years old, which at the time made him the youngest ever player to appear in English professional rugby. His real breakthrough at Saracens happened in the 2010/11 season when he was rushed back from a dual contract agreement with Bedford Blues as injury cover at fly half. He took his chance in the first team and never looked back, ending his debut season with a flawless kicking display over Leicester Tigers to inspire his side to their first ever Premiership title. His performances during the season saw him nominated for Young Player of the Season by both the Premiership and RPA. A senior England call up became inevitable and in 2012 he was named the England squad for that year’s Six Nations. He started every game for England in that tournament with his versatility enabling him to cover both inside centre and fly half in the starting 15. Owen’s performances that year led to him being nominated, alongside Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, for 2012 IRB Player of the Year.

Since that time he has been virtually an ever-present in the England team amassing 43 caps and counting, whilst becoming England’s second top point scorer of all time at just the age of 24. His continued excellence for both club and country has seen him win almost all major titles. Following the 2015/16 season where Owen was crucial in both England’s Six Nations Grand Slam victory, and Saracens’ Premiership and European triumphs, the only thing now missing from his illustrious collection is a World Cup. He has become one of the greats of world rugby and a key cog in Saracens’ current period of success. Juan Figallo Previous Clubs: Jockey Club de Salta, Montpellier Honours: Argentina (22 caps), Argentina U20s, Argentina U19s Debut: vs Harlequins 2nd November 2014 Total Appearances: 18 Player Sponsor: Collect Services Bio: The Argentine prop joined Saracens from French side Montpellier in the summer of 2014 following a neck injury meaning he was no longer allowed to play in the French league.

He has recovered well from his injury at Saracens and has regained his form that had him known as one of the best scrummagers in world rugby. 2016 has been an eventful year for Juan both on the field, with Sarries’ double triumph, and off it. He signed a new long-term contract with Saracens in January 2016 before giving birth to his first child a month later. He celebrated the birth of his son by starring in Saracens’ backs against the wall defeat of Gloucester just 3 hours later, after gaining permission from his wife of course! Jamie George Player Sponsor: Duncan Sinclair Bio: Having made his debut for Saracens late in 2009, Jamie really forced his way into being a first team regular in the 2010/11 season where he played an integral part of the squad that won the club’s first ever Premiership title. He is another product of the Saracens academy, having joined at the age of 14, and like many of his peers has now gone on to represent his country. Jamie’s progression into the first team has been aided by sharing the number 2 shirt with the experience of Schalk Brits.

The two hookers dovetail together perfectly in a rotation system that gets the very best out of both players. Having come from a rugby playing family, he has gone on to exceed the achievements of his father, a former Northampton Saints, London Welsh and Barbarians scrum half, by becoming a regular for his country. He made his test debut in 2015, earning a call up to the World Cup squad, and went on to star in England’s victorious tour of Australia in 2016 where he made match winning impacts off the bench. Alex Goode Player Sponsor: MBN Events Bio: The extremely versatile back, who is equally comfortable playing a full back or fly half, has developed into a star for Saracens over the past few seasons. His excellence saw him awarded the 2013/14 Saracens Richard Hill Players’ Player of the Year award. Then in 2015/16 his standout performances throughout Sarries’ triumphant Premiership title defence saw him named Premiership Player of the Season. Alex’s sporting background also features appearances in National Schools athletics finals, playing county level tennis and being part of the Ipswich Town FC Academy, but luckily it was rugby that most grabbed his attention.

Having been a part of the Saracens academy he made his first team appearance at the end of the 2007/08 season, but really broke into the first team the following year. Having played for England at U18, U19, U20 and Saxons levels, his first senior cap finally came in 2012 on England’s tour of South Africa. He showed his international class early on with his playmaking ability earning him Man of the Match on his first appearance at Twickenham for England later 2012. Due to the high levels of competition in his position in the England squad he hasn’t been capped as many times as his ability deserves. But his performances for Sarries are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore and Alex is sure to be a regular for England in the near future. George Kruis Player Sponsor: Martin & Anne Flower Bio: Alongside Maro Itoje, George forms one half of the second row partnership that dominated the 2015/16 season both domestically for Saracens and internationally for England. At the heart of the engine room for each, he is a sizeable contributor both with his line out expertise and all-round excellence.

Like his partner-in-crime, he came through the Saracens academy where he had a chance to learn from one of England and Saracens’ great second rowers in Steve Borthwick. George dovetailed with Borthwick towards the end of the latter’s career after forcing his way into first team reckoning in 2009. George’s excellence meant that the hole left by Borthwick’s retirement was filled in straight away. After being a successful performer at age group level and the Saxons for England, he finally earned his first senior England cap in the 2014 QBE Internationals. He was also named in the England squad for the 2015 World Cup amongst a strong contingent locks. Since then he has gone on to cement his place in the starting tight five for England following his contribution in the 2016 Six Nations Grand Slam. Billy Vunipola Player Sponsor: Peter Rabin Dental Surgery Bio: Since arriving at Saracens in the summer of 2013, Viliami ‘Billy’ Vunipola has developed into one of the worlds most talented and respected players.

Appointed one of England’s vice-captains in 2016, Billy has taken on a leadership role for both Club and country and alongside his brother Mako, committed his future to Saracens in the summer of 2016 signing a ‘multi-year’ deal to remain at the Club. An impressive first season in Saracens colours saw him awarded the Premiership Land Rover Discovery of the season award, in a season where Saracens broke the Aviva Premiership record for points accumulated in a regular season. A last-minute try on his Test debut for England’s in their 32-3 triumph over Argentina in Salta was a sign of things to come for the bulldozing back-rower, with Billy becoming forts choice for England at No.8. His display away to Ulster in the 2013/14 Henieken Cup quarter-final at a raucous Ravenhill Stadium typified his growing maturity and influence as player.

Also capped at England U18 and U20 levels, Billy is part of a distinguished Tongan rugby dynasty, his brother Mako is also an England international and their father Fe’ao, a hooker won 32 caps for his country, figured in the 1995 and 1999 World Cups and played for Pontypool. Six of Billy’s uncles and his grandfather represented Tonga. The two brothers previously played alongside each other in the England U18 team and their careers have progressed from there. Player Sponsor: Gfinity Bio: Italian international Samuela Vunisa arrived at Saracens in the summer of 2015. The Fijian born back row is a strong ball carrier with an eye for the try-line. Samu played underage rugby for both the Fijian National Under-19 and Under-20 teams and began his professional career in 2009 at New Zealand side Taranaki.

Ex-Saracens hooker Fabio Ongaro signed Samu Vunisa when he was team manager at the Pro12 club Zebre in 2013, and Vunisa qualified for the Italy national rugby union team in Autumn 2014 under the IRB 3-year residency rule, winning his first cap for the Azzurri on 22 November 2014 against South Africa. He went on to make his first Six Nations appearance for Italy in the defeat against England at Twickenham on February 14th 2015. Vunisa has played twice against Saracens in his career. Both matches were won by Saracens in the Heineken Cup last season. However, Vunisa did score Zebre’s only try over the two games. Richard Wigglesworth Player Sponsor: The Domoney Family Bio: Richard Wigglesworth is now in his seventh season with Saracens having joined from Sale Sharks at the start of the 2010/11 campaign.

His 2013/14 form for Saracens saw him earn a recall to the England set-up where he toured New Zealand with Stuart Lancaster’s squad and was a key member of England’s Rugby World Cup campaign. One of the finest exponents of the box-kick in world rugby, Wigglesworth was one of his most memorable performances in Saracens colours was his display in the 2016 European Rugby Champions Cup final, where he showed all of his tactical nous to steer his side to their maiden European Cup in monsoon conditions in Lyon. Wigglesworth is an inductee of the Saracens 100 Club and has captained the team on numerous occasions. Chris Wyles Player Sponsor: Worldwide Currencies Bio: The USA international is no stranger to Saracens having followed the club as a youngster growing up in Harpenden. Born in America, the young Wyles then moved back to the UK with his English parents and developed his rugby skills at Haileybury College in Hertford. While at university in Nottingham, he also played for the Championship side before a brief spell with Northampton Saints.

He returned to the US but while at the 2007 world cup in France, his performances impressed the then Saracens Head Coach Eddie Jones and he joined the club on secondment from USA Rugby. He quickly adapted to the pace of the Premiership and he signed a permanent deal with the club at the start of the 2009/10 campaign – a season which was to see him become one of the club’s and Premiership’s most consistent performers. Having made over 200 appearances for the Club, Wyles has demonstrated his versatility by plying his trade in five different positions in the Saracens backline and continues to be one of Mark McCall’s most dependable players. Mako Vunipola Player Sponsor: Cavendish Brooke Bio: Mako Vunipola has developed into one of European Rugby’s leading lights. Since arriving from Bristol in 2011, Mako has gone from strength to strength in a Saracens jersey and has gone on to excel for both England and the British & Irish Lions. He joined Saracens at the start of the 2011/12 season from Bristol as an England U20 international but injury hampered his first season with the club.

He also featured at England 18 level alongside his brother Billy and comes from a rugby dynasty with their father Fe’ao, a hooker, emigrated to Wales to play for Pontypool in 1998 and won 32 caps for Tonga, including appearances in the 1995 and 1999 Rugby World Cups. The 2012/13 season proved to be a whirlwind year for the prop after not only cementing a regular starting place for Saracens, but also making his full England debut in the Autumn internationals and he carried his fine form into the Six Nations. The year was to end on an even greater note following his selection for the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia. Mako is now regarded as one of the world’s finest looseheads, and is a regular in Eddie Jones’ England squad. Mike Ellery Player Sponsor: Cabana Brasilian Barbeque Bio: Mike Ellery first made his name in the championship as a powerful number 8 for Moseley, where his pace and running style caught the eye of the England 7s team selectors.

He spent 2 years playing and making headlines in the 7s circuit as he got to travel the world representing England in the HSBC Sevens World Series. He and sister Megan achieved a unique double when they both played for England sevens teams at the Dubai Sevens in November 2013 — the first time England teams had featured a brother and sister. With his strength, skill and speed he was identified as a player of enormous potential by the Saracens coaching team. He joined Sarries after the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow where his talents and Sevens experience saw a change of position to the wing. He couldn’t have landed at a better club in which to learn his new craft as he got to learn from the experience of David Strettle and Chris Ashton during his first season at the club. He learned quickly and since the departure of Strettle before the 2015/16 season, he has seamlessly helped to fill the void to play an important part in the Sarries back line.

Schalk Burger Player Sponsor: Worldwide Currencies Bio: World class Springbok loose forward Schalk Burger is new-face in the Saracens squad this season, with the legendary loose forward joining the reigning English and European champions. Renowned as one of world rugby’s finest back row forwards, Burger has captained South Africa during his stellar 12-year international career and is a former IRB World Player of the year. In an illustrious career he was won 86 caps for the Springboks and holds the record for the most tries (14) for a back row forward for his country. The sight of Schalk Burger in the famous green Springbok jersey has been one that has dominated South African rugby for the majority of the 21st century. Since his debut for the Boks against Georgia in Sydney during the 2003 Rugby World Cup, the blond haired loose forward has gone on to win 86 caps for his country, has played in four Rugby World Cup’s, winning the tournament in 2007.

He won the SA Rugby Player of the Year (2004 & 2011) and the Young SA Rugby Player of the Year nominee (2003 & 2004) and was the IRB Player of the Year in 2004. Burger made his Super Rugby debut for the Stormers in 2004 and his Currie Cup bow for Western Province the same year. His father, also called Schalk Burger, gained international honours for South Africa during their years of isolation in the 1980s. Burger links up with Saracens after a spell with Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath and Super Rugby’s Stormers. Joel Conlan Player Sponsor: Old Grovewood Properties Bio: The English Junior World Championship winning back row forward joined the Saracens in the summer of 2015, reuniting with a number of his England U20s team mates in the Saracens Senior Academy.

The talented back rower made his debut for Exeter in November 2012 and went on to make 9 appearances for the South coast club, including an appearance against Saracens in 2015’s Anglo-Welsh Cup final. During a loan spell at Bedford Blues in the 2015/16 season he managed to impress despite suffering an injury setback in pre-season. This has earned him a call up to the senior squad at Saracens for the 2016/17 season which began with a starting spot in the pre-season victory over Bedford Blues. Mark Flanagan Player Sponsor: Flyte - Scooter/Bag/Backpack All in One Bio: The talented Lock has represented Ireland at U18, U19 and U20 levels, but is also English qualified. Mark made his senior debut for Leinster in 2010, where he made 9 appearances, before moving to France to play in the Pro D2 for Stade Montois. Following his stay in France, the imposing six feet seven inches tall second row moved to Bedford Blues for the 2015/16 season.

He played a huge part of the Blues’ pack during their run to the Greene King IPA Championship semi-final, proving himself one of the most impressive lock forwards in the Championship. His impressive season in the Championship earned Mark a move the Saracens to help bolster options in a second row that is bound to be affected by international call-ups. Vincent Koch Player Sponsor: Bio: The South African international prop joined Saracens from Cape Town Super Rugby franchise The Stormer in the summer of 2016. He’ll join a growing group of former Stormers at Allianz Park along with Schalk Burger, Neil de Kock, Schalk Brits and Michael Rhodes. Koch was identified by Saracens as a player with enormous potential who could make a significant contribution to the squad at tighthead prop. Known as a powerful scrummager with great ability around the park, he is knocking on the door for a regular spot in the Springbok front row having made his debut in the 2015 Rugby Championship clash against New Zealand. Titi Lamositele Player Sponsor: Soteryan Cyber Security Bio: The Washington-born prop was a high school American Football star before turning his attention to rugby.

Though his family is Samoan and each of his brothers and sisters played rugby, he didn’t play rugby himself until he was encouraged to by the coach of local Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club. When he was called up to play for the USA in a World Cup qualifier against Canada in 2013, he became the youngest ever player to play for the Eagles. Following his first start later that year, he was eligible for a Visa and signed a contract with Sarries. The talented front row has found a home as Saracens and considers it the perfect place to really develop his game. As a player he is part of a great core of young players at Sarries who will develop and play together for some time. Alex Lozowski Player Sponsor: Chase & Partners LLP Bio: Saracens announced the signing of exciting fly-half Alex Lozowski from rivals Wasps for the beginning of the 2016/17 season. A classy playmaker who attended Watford Grammar School he is the son of former Wasps and England centre Rob Lozowski. After Charlie Hodgson hung up his boots Mark McCall wasted little time in swooping for the Wasps fly-half to bolster his playmaking options for the upcoming season.

After a fine season for Yorkshire Carnegie in 2013/14, Lozowski won the club’s Young Player of the Season for his fine form in the No10 shirt. Having previously been part of Wasps’ academy, he returned to Twyford Avenue for the beginning of the 2014/15 season. After then Wasps N01o Ruaridh Jackson suffered an ACL injury, Lozowski was entrusted with sharing fly-half duties with former Sarries playmaker Andy Goode at the Ricoh Arena. His performances for Wasps that season highlighted his undoubted promise. He is known for his prowess on the rugby field but Lozowski was equally adept at football, having been a member of Chelsea FC’s academy until he was 16-years old. Sean Maitland Player Sponsor: Eden Private Staff Bio: Wing or full-back Sean Maitland joined Saracens from relegated side London Irish in the summer of 2016. The New Zealand-born Maitland who has been capped by Scotland and also toured Australia with the British & Irish Lions in 2013 strengthens Sarries back division for their double title defence.

Maitland was part of the New Zealand under-19 team that won the World Cup in 2007, and the under-20 side that scooped the 2008 IRB Junior World Championship. He signed for the Crusaders and featured in every game as they powered their way to the Super 12 title in 2008. He followed Super Rugby success with domestic silverware as he helped Canterbury claim the Air New Zealand Cup in 2009. He amassed 50 caps and 24 tries for the franchise, including a record-equalling four tries against the Brumbies in 2011. He moved to Glasgow Warriors in 2012 scoring ten tries in 39 games in a three year spell at Scotstoun Stadium. Sean qualifies for Scotland via his paternal Grandparents. His Grandfather Stan was a welder from Glasgow. He scored on his Scotland debut against England at Twickenham Stadium in February 2013 Maitland is the cousin of Australian star Quade Cooper and is a close relative of the Stanley family that also includes former All Blacks Joe Stanley, Jeremy Stanley, Benson Stanley plus Kiwi RL star Chase Stanley.

He studied at Hamilton Boys' High School whose notable sporting Alumni includes Black Caps cricketing legend Scott Styris, current All Black scrum half Tawera Kerr-Barlow and Wales, British and Irish Lions coaching guru, Warren Gatland. Henry Taylor Zebo Commits To Munster With New Two-Year Deal : Irish Rugby | Official Website Zebo Commits To Munster With New Two-Year Deal 1 February 2016 15:07 By Editor Simon Zebo, Munster's joint-record try scorer, is pictured in recent Champions Cup action for the province © Dan Sheridan/ Munster Rugby and the IRFU can today confirm that Simon Zebo has signed a two=year deal that will see him remain with the province until at least June 2018. Simon Zebo is the latest of an international trio to commit their future to Munster with fellow backs Keith Earls and Conor Murray already putting pen to paper last week. To date the 25-year-old winger/fullback has made 96 Munster appearances, the first of which came as a sub-Academy player against Connacht at the Sportsground in April 2010.

After one year in the full Munster Academy programme, Zebo secured a senior contract at the beginning of the 2011/12 season and made his European debut against the Scarlets in Llanelli in December 2011. A month later, he famously scored a hat-trick of tries away to Northampton Saints as Munster booked a place in the 2012 Heineken Cup quarter-finals. Since then, Zebo has become the province's leading try scorer for the past four seasons, the record league try scorer and the joint all-time try scorer with his most recent try against Stade Francais at Thomond Park seeing him equal Anthony Horgan's record of 41 tries. On the international front, the Corkman has won 21 Ireland caps, scoring seven tries, and was a tourist with the British & Irish Lions in Australia in 2013. In making his Ireland debut against New Zealand in Eden Park in June 2012, more recently Zebo started in four of the five games during Ireland's successful RBS 6 Nations title defence in 2015 and made three appearances at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Commenting on today's announcement, Munster head coach Anthony Foley said: "It's great to have even more good news on the contract front today. Simon's record speaks for itself and keeping a player with his experience and versatility is key to our plans going forward, so we're delighted that he has committed his future to Munster." Ireland Women's Sevens Squad Named For Sydney Camp 19 January 2017, 7:26pm IRFU Director of Rugby Sevens Anthony Eddy will take an Ireland Women's Sevens squad of 14 players to Australia on Monday for a training camp as part of the preparations for the Sydney leg of the HSBC World Rugby Women's Sevens Series. Editor There's IRFU Referees in action in both European and domestic competitions this weekend.

Roland Mercer Falvey Appointed As Lions' Head Of Medical 18 January 2017, 1:08pm The British & Irish Lions today announced three major appointments for the 2017 tour to New Zealand, Head Analyst Rhodri Bown, Head of Medical Eanna Falvey and Head of Strength & Conditioning Paul Stridgeon will support head coach Warren Gatland and his coaching team on the 10-match tour. Editor Irish Rugby TV: Ireland v Australia Post-Match Press Conference 27 Nov, 00:33 Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt praised the squad's 'immense character' following the 27-24 GUINNESS Series success against Australia. Meanwhile, captain Rory Best reflects on 'an emotional day' as he made his 100th appearance for his country. Irish Rugby TV: Ireland v Australia Tunnel Cam 26 Nov, 21:21 Irish Rugby TV brings you a behind the scenes look at Ireland's final GUINNESS Series game against Australia. Joe Schmidt's men marked captain Rory Best's 100th cap with a superb 27-24 victory over the Wallabies.

Irish Rugby TV: Rory Best On Reaching 100 Ireland Caps 25 Nov, 16:49 Ireland captain Rory Best assesses the Wallabies, the opposition in tomorrow's final GUINNESS Series Test, and also speaks about his personal milestone of reaching 100 caps for his country. Irish Rugby TV: Michael Kearney On His Best Memories As Team Manager 25 Nov, 16:31 Saturday's GUINNESS Series clash with Australia marks Michael Kearney's last game as Ireland team manager. We spoke to him about five memorable years in the role. Watch out for a couple of special cameos! Irish Rugby TV: Conor Murray Previews Ireland v Australia 24 Nov, 15:44 Ireland scrum half Conor Murray speaks to Irish Rugby TV about training this week, the threats posed by Australia and his respect for Ireland captain Rory Best who will win his 100th cap this weekend.

Irish Rugby TV: RWC 2023 Bid Launch - Dick Spring & Brian O'Driscoll 15 Nov, 17:43 Dick Spring, Chairman of Ireland's RWC 2023 Bid Oversight Board, and Bid Ambassador Brian O'Driscoll speak about their excitement at officially launching Ireland's bid to host the Rugby World Cup in 2023. #Ireland2023 Ireland 2023: Ready For The World 15 Nov, 10:46 We're ready to create something legendary. A showcase for rugby nations old and new. A tournament that will grow the game globally, promote the values, spirit and ethos of rugby and will capture the world's imagination. #Ireland2023 - Liam Neeson gives voice to Ireland's bid to host Rugby World Cup 2023. Irish Rugby TV: Ultan Dillane Excited For Chicago Clash 2 Nov, 11:44 Connacht and Ireland lock Ultan Dillane feels that the squad have settled in well in Chicago as they prepare for a huge game in Soldier Field - he's excited!

Irish Rugby TV: Andy Farrell On Preparing For New Zealand 2 Nov, 11:29 Assistant Coach Andy Farrell spoke to the media yesterday about Ireland's preparation time for the match against New Zealand in Soldier Field and how the squad togetherness helps new players to adapt. November Women's Series Tickets On Sale #BringIt 20 Oct, 10:14 Tickets are now on sale for the first ever Women's November International Series to be held in the UCD Bowl. Kids go free with any adult tickets. Ireland will face world champions England, top ranked Canada and the Black Ferns of New Zealand. Irish Rugby TV: Garrett Tubridy Sets The Scene For Women's Sevens Dublin 23 Jun, 10:49 Tournament Director Garrett Tubridy sets the scene for an exciting weekend of rugby at UCD where 16 Women's Sevens teams will battle it out at for one qualifying spot for the Rio Olympics.

Tickets are available from Irish Rugby TV: Kim Flood - Olympic Sevens Repechage Preview 23 Jun, 10:35 Kim Flood is looking forward to playing for Ireland in this weekend's World Rugby Women's Sevens Olympic Repechage tournament at UCD. Tickets are available from Irish Rugby TV: Stuart Olding - Post-Match Reaction 18 Jun, 19:20 Ireland centre Stuart Olding reflects on the late 32-26 loss to South Africa. He says that the bond within the squad will help them bounce back for the series decider in Port Elizabeth next Saturday. Irish Rugby TV: Tadhg Furlong - Post-Match Reaction 18 Jun, 19:16 Tadhg Furlong reflects on a disappointing day for Ireland against South Africa. However, he will take positives from his first Test start and be ready to build for the final match of the series in Port Elizabeth. Irish Rugby TV: Ireland Captain's Run Press Conference 17 Jun, 17:55 Ireland captain Rory Best talks to the press on the eve of the second match of the series against Springboks.

Kick-off tomorrow in Johannesburg is at 5pm local time/4pm Irish time. Irish Rugby TV: Rory Best - Second Test Preview 17 Jun, 17:50 Ireland captain Rory Best is ready to play in 'an unbelievable stadium' in Johannesburg tomorrow and believes the squad are prepared for a very tough challenge in the second Test. Irish Rugby TV: Paddy Jackson Previews Johannesburg Clash 17 Jun, 07:40 Paddy Jackson is preparing for Ireland's second Test against South Africa on Saturday (kick-off 5pm local time/4pm Irish time). The Ulster out-half has been checking out Ellis Park in advance of the match. Irish Rugby TV: Ireland Team Announcement Press Conference 16 Jun, 17:36 Head coach Joe Schmidt and scrum half Conor Murray were at the Ireland team announcement press conference today as the side to start the second Test against South Africa was revealed.

Irish Rugby TV: Jamie Heaslip On Ireland's Focus For The Second Test 15 Jun, 09:47 Number 8 Jamie Heaslip gives his assessment of Ireland's historic win in Cape Town and talks about the squad's approach to this Saturday's rematch with the Springboks. Irish Rugby TV: Rhys Ruddock On Building Towards The Second Test 14 Jun, 16:17 Back rower Rhys Ruddock talks to Irish Rugby TV after the Ireland squad's first 'tough session' in Johannesburg as they build towards next Saturday's second Test against the Springboks. Top 10 Rugby Players Of All Time | Terrific Top 10 Counting down to the BEST Top 10 Rugby Players Of All Time by Kyle Rugby is one of the world’s most popular sports, despite only becoming professional in the 90’s. It has produced many great players throughout the years, and here are the ten I feel are the best. Several outstanding players had to be left out, because I just couldn’t find a place for them.

Honorable Mentions: Bryan Habana, Joost van der Westhuizen, George Gregan, Francois Pienaar, Matt Giteau, Gareth Edwards, Gavin Hastings #10. Shane Williams Arguably Wales’ greatest ever player, Shane Williams has scored more tries, and had more appearances than any other Welsh player in history. His breakthrough was in the 2005 Six Nations, where Wales won every single match (a Grand Slam), largely thanks to his tries. He also led Wales to another Grand Slam in 2008. That year, he was awarded the IRB rugby player of the year award, the first Welshmen to win the honor. In his final match, a friendly against Australia in 2011, Shane Williams scored his 58th try with final touch of the ball. Williams was famous for his acceleration, and his small size, being nicknamed “Little Shane Williams.” #9. Naas Botha Despite playing during the time when South Africa was almost completely banned from international rugby for Apartheid, Naas Botha was still able to leave his mark on the game. He was an excellent kicker, who was famous for his ability to score drop-goals under pressure.

In only 28 caps for South Africa, Botha was able to score 312 points, a South African record for decades. Towards the end of his career, Botha was able to see South Africa rejoin the international fold. If only his team hadn’t been banned, Botha may have been very near the top of this list. #8. Percy Montgomery The all-time record holder in both caps and points for South Africa, Percy Montgomery was one of the sport’s greatest kickers. He was the top points scorer in both the 2004 and 2005 Tri Nation tournaments. However, his finest moment came in the 2007 World Cup, when his accurate kicking led South Africa to the title of the most prestigious rugby tournament. Montgomery started off being extremely erratic, as he could play brilliantly one match and then be very poor the next. However, he was able to sort that out to become one of the sport’s greats. #7. Brian O’Driscoll O’Driscoll holds the record for the most tries for any centre, his position, in history.

He is also the most capped Irish player, with 83 of his 120 Irish caps being as captain. In fact, he is the second most-capped player ever. O’Driscoll was named the player of the tournament at three separate Six Nations – 2006, 2007, and 2009. In the 2009 edition, he led Ireland to their first Grand Slam in 61 years, and scored a try in every match except one. He has played for Ireland in the last three World Cups, leading them to the quarterfinals in 2011. #6. Jonny Wilkinson Wilkinson began his rise in 2001, but really burst onto the scene in 2003. In one of the most famous World Cup moments, he scored a drop-goal in the last minute of extra time in the final to give England the win against Australia, their only World Cup title. He suffered a series of injuries in the next few years, and critics argued his best form was behind him.

However, Wilkinson proved them wrong by leading England to the final of the 2007 World Cup, where they lost a close match to South Africa. He was rugby’s highest point scorer in history, until New Zealand’s Dan Carter surpassed him in mid-2011. #5. Richie McCaw McCaw was surprisingly chosen for New Zealand’s end-of-2001 tour, despite his inexperience. But in his debut match against Ireland, he was named man of the match after a brilliant performance. McCaw became a key part of the New Zealand side, and was named captain in 2006. He was criticized after New Zealand underperformed at the 2007 World Cup, falling in the quarterfinals. However, he silenced his critics in the 2011 World Cup, when he brilliantly led his team to the title. He is a three-time IRB Player of the Year (2006, 2009, and 2010). Up until 2012, when Carter won his second, no player had won the award more than once. #4.

David Campese One of the most entertaining players to grace rugby, David Campese was capped 101 times for Australia, and held the world record for the most tries in test rugby until 2006. He was named player of the tournament at the 1991 World Cup, where Australia defeated England in the final. He was famous for playing to entertain the crowd, while still being able to rack up tries. Campese was outspoken throughout his career, describing himself as “rugby’s first millionaire”, at a time when players were banned from profiting from rugby. However, his brilliant play spoke louder than his words, and he still remains an Australian great. #3. Dan Carter Dan Carter is arguably the greatest kicker in the history of rugby. He holds the world record for points, which he took from Jonny Wilkinson. He is the highest point scorer in the history of the Tri Nations (now the Rugby Championship), and has scored 1,381 points in his history. In 2005, Carter scored 33 points against the British and Irish Lions. This was nearly double the previous record for a New Zealander in one match. His performance was called one of the greatest in rugby history.

He has also scored 29 tries, and New Zealand have won every single match he scored a try in. #2. Martin Johnson In 1993, Martin Johnson was supposed to play a match for his club, but England suddenly needed him after one of their starters had been injured, so he was dramatically thrown on for his debut. However, he played well as England defeated France. After that match, Johnson became a regular starter, helping England win the Grand Slam in 1995. He became captain four years later, and led England to the World Cup title in 2003. Johnson was appointed English manager in 2008, three years after he had retired. He was in charge until after the 2011 World Cup, where England underperformed. #1. Jonah Lomu Jonah Lomu combined speed and power to dazzle opponents. He is recognized as rugby’s first true superstar, and helped grow the sport during the early 90’s. Lomu only had two caps entering the 1995 World Cup, but stunned the rugby world by scoring seven tries in five matches.

His tries helped New Zealand to the final, where they lost to South Africa in a historic match. He remains the highest try scorer in World Cup history, with 12 tries. He was also crucial to New Zealand winning the first Tri Nations tournament, in 1996. Throughout his career, Lomu struggled with nephrotic syndrome, a serious kidney disorder. The disease often left him bedridden on days he wasn’t playing, although he kept it a secret for most of his career. Share this: No he wasn’t ! He ain’t do ish brah !!!!!!! LOMU hands down. Ur the best LOMU

Question: With 41 tries from 109 caps, who is the leading try scorer for the Irish national Rugby Union team?
Answer: BRIAN O'DRISCOLL