#3 Kieran Read (New Zealand)
All Blacks legend Kieran Read scored 26 tries during his international career and is among the most-capped players in New Zealand rugby history.
Across an 11-year Test career, the dynamic No.8 played more than 127 Tests for the All Blacks.
Parisse said:
“I think Kieran Read was underrated compared to some of his teammates. Relentless.”
DID YOU KNOW?
In the 2020 Queen’s Birthday Honours, Read was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to rugby.
#2 Jonny Wilkinson (England)
England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson won 91 caps and will forever be remembered for his legendary drop goal that secured the 2003 Rugby World Cup in the dying seconds of extra time against Australia.
Despite battling multiple injuries throughout his career, Wilkinson returned to help England reach the 2007 World Cup Final and also toured twice with the British & Irish Lions.
Parisse said:
“He has something about him that made him different. It’s hard to explain.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Wilkinson’s brother Mark Wilkinson also played for Newcastle Falcons, making 16 Premiership appearances between 2002 and 2005.
#1 Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
At the top of Parisse’s list is All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, widely considered one of the greatest players in rugby history.
McCaw became the first All Black to reach 100 Test caps and the first rugby union player to win 100 Tests. He retired with 148 caps, holding the world record at the time.
Parisse said:
“McCaw was an inspirational leader and a world-class operator.”
DID YOU KNOW?
Since retiring, McCaw has become a helicopter pilot and even flew rescue and reconnaissance missions following the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake in New Zealand.
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