Monday, October 31, 2011
Rugby World Cup 2011 Team of the Tournament
Rugby World Cup 2011 finished just over a week ago, so since then a few different sectors of the media have been stringing together their respective Teams of the Tournament. Here's a few to mull over, as well as a surprisingly balanced one from Reunion in New Zealand.
Today we take a look at who impressed the most at the tournament, and how selections vary across the board for a RWC 2011 dream team. We also welcome your selections, as it's always a hotly debated topic among fans.
The main video here is from the Reunion show in New Zealand. They have a nicely balanced team that quite refreshingly features players from a number of different countries. It would have been tempting for them to shove in a whole load of All Blacks, but as you'll see, they only have five.
Below are another three teams from three different sources. There's a few common trends, namely with Lionel Nallet, Jerome Kaino, and Israel Dagg all being picked. There's also a few positional switches, and allowance for injured players in some cases.
The Guardian
1. Tony Woodcock (New Zealand), 2. Marius Tincu (Romania), 3. Adam Jones (Wales), 4. Brad Thorn (New Zealand), 5. Lionel Nallet (France), 6. Jerome Kaino (New Zealand), 7. David Pocock (Australia), 8. Imanol Harinordoquy (France), 9. Mike Phillips (Wales), 10. Dan Carter (New Zealand), 11. George North (Wales), 12. Jamie Roberts (Wales), 13. Conrad Smith (New Zealand), 14. Vincent Clerc (France), 15. Israel Dagg (New Zealand)
New Zealand Herald
1. Cian Healey (Ireland) 2. Stephen Moore (Australia) 3.Owen Franks (New Zealand) 4. Lionel Nallet (France) 5. Victor Matfield (South Africa) 6. Jerome Kaino (New Zealand) 7. Sean O’Brien (Ireland) 8. Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe (Argentina) 9. Dimitri Yachvilli (France) 10. Rhys Priestland (Wales) 11 George North (Wales) 12 Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand) 13. Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland) 14. James O’Connor (Australia) 15. Israel Dagg (New Zealand)
ITV
1. Jean-Baptiste Poux (France) 2. Keven Mealamu (New Zealand) 3. Adam Jones (Wales) 4. Brad Thorn (New Zealand) 5. Lionel Nallet (France) 6. Jerome Kaino (New Zealand) 7. Sam Warburton (Wales) 8. Imanol Harinorduquy (France) 9. Mike Phillips (Wales) 10. Rhys Priestland (Wales) 11. James O'Connor (Australia) 12. Ma'a Nonu (New Zealand) 13. Jamie Roberts (Wales) 14. Vincent Clerc (France) 15. Israel Dagg (New Zealand)
Have a look through these, as well as the Reunion selection, and let us know what you think.
Note: Credit to Reunion for the video
Posted at 10:28 pm | 65 comments
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Posted in Rugby World Cup 2011
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Viewing 65 comments
robb_ October 31, 2011 11:49 pm
Surely Dusautoir has to get a mention at 7? And Richie?
cheyanqui November 01, 2011 12:14 am
1 Jean Baptiste Poux
2 Marius Tincu
3 Adam Jones
4 Lionel Nallet (tough choice over Matfield, but Nallet's lineout prowess took them just a little further)
5 Danie Roussow (great, great workrate; honorable mention to Horwill)
6 Thierry Dusautoir (sucker MCs call him sire)
7 Jacques Burger (yes, over Warburton, McCaw, and Pocock -- did so much with little support, and over Warburton, whose ill advised tackle left his team short for 60+ minutes)
8 Imanol Harinordoquy (Gorgodze was my guy until Imanol stepped it up in the knock-outs; Fernandez Lobbe bowed out too early)
9 Kahn Fotuali'I (edges Mike Phillips and Piru Weepu)
10 Rhys Priestland (sorry Dan Carter -- playing in two pool games, only one of which mattered much (vs France) doesn't get him in -- another "might have been" if he stayed healthier longer)
11 George North (picked to the opposite wing for V. Clerc)
12 Jamie Roberts
13 BOD (yes over Conrad Smith -- who was great, but had much better players around him to create space)
14 Vincent Clerc
15 Israel Dagg
2 Marius Tincu
3 Adam Jones
4 Lionel Nallet (tough choice over Matfield, but Nallet's lineout prowess took them just a little further)
5 Danie Roussow (great, great workrate; honorable mention to Horwill)
6 Thierry Dusautoir (sucker MCs call him sire)
7 Jacques Burger (yes, over Warburton, McCaw, and Pocock -- did so much with little support, and over Warburton, whose ill advised tackle left his team short for 60+ minutes)
8 Imanol Harinordoquy (Gorgodze was my guy until Imanol stepped it up in the knock-outs; Fernandez Lobbe bowed out too early)
9 Kahn Fotuali'I (edges Mike Phillips and Piru Weepu)
10 Rhys Priestland (sorry Dan Carter -- playing in two pool games, only one of which mattered much (vs France) doesn't get him in -- another "might have been" if he stayed healthier longer)
11 George North (picked to the opposite wing for V. Clerc)
12 Jamie Roberts
13 BOD (yes over Conrad Smith -- who was great, but had much better players around him to create space)
14 Vincent Clerc
15 Israel Dagg
Reality November 01, 2011 12:16 am
Surely some of these choices are a joke. I mean, Kaino? He was so average. Surely Dusatoir was the obvious choice there? And Lionel Nallet? Did he really play that well? I barely even noticed him. Same goes for Clerc. And one says Roberts at outside centre, and one says O'Driscoll? Roberts is an inside centre, so he obviously wouldn't be as good at outside. And O'Driscoll, after D'arcy and Earls was probably Ireland's worst player. He did nothing for the whole tournament except make mistakes and miss tackles. I really wish someone who didn't have an agenda and who isn't a complete fool could do an unbiased 15.
johndoe November 01, 2011 6:56 pm
I don't understand why Kaino has been selected at 6 in nearly every RWC XV. I've seen a few with hum there but I really didn't find him that great during the RWC. He was solid, but that's it. Not particularly great in any aspect of play. And there are so many poor choices and players out of position in those 3 teams there.
Guardian: Carter as 10? He only played 2 matches against poor opposition. Harinordoquy played really well towards the end, but for the majority of matches he was not good. Same goes for Clerc except he didn't play as well at the end. There were much more obvious choices for those positions.
New Zealand Herald: Victor Matfield was average all tournament compared to his usual standard. And there were better options at 8 and 9 than Lobbe and Yachvilli. And I'm an Irish fan, but BOD as the best 13 in the tournament? Don't think so.
ITV: Just more of the same really.
Guardian: Carter as 10? He only played 2 matches against poor opposition. Harinordoquy played really well towards the end, but for the majority of matches he was not good. Same goes for Clerc except he didn't play as well at the end. There were much more obvious choices for those positions.
New Zealand Herald: Victor Matfield was average all tournament compared to his usual standard. And there were better options at 8 and 9 than Lobbe and Yachvilli. And I'm an Irish fan, but BOD as the best 13 in the tournament? Don't think so.
ITV: Just more of the same really.
Lenulid November 01, 2011 12:17 am
Warburton was the bst player of the tournament. Figallo was up there too.
Reality November 01, 2011 12:28 am
Oh yeah, I forgot to leave my 15.
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Paul O'Connell
6. Thierry Dusatoir
7. David Pocock
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Philips
10. Dan Carter/Ryhs Priestland
11. George North
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Conrad Smith
14. Richard Kahui
15. Israel Dagg
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Paul O'Connell
6. Thierry Dusatoir
7. David Pocock
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Philips
10. Dan Carter/Ryhs Priestland
11. George North
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Conrad Smith
14. Richard Kahui
15. Israel Dagg
Pretzel November 01, 2011 9:00 pm
I find it ironic you questioned Nallet's performances yet you put POC in your team. Personally I found POC to be lacking a huge amount of input this world cup, i didn't anything or at least much of what he did was inspiring...
Demosys November 01, 2011 12:51 am
1- Tony Woodcock
2- William Servat
3- Adam Jones
4- Brad Thorn
5- Lionel Nallet
6 - David Pockock
7- Julien Bonnaire
8- Imanol Harinordoquy
9- Piri Weepu
10- Ryhs Priestland
11- James O'Connor
12- Jamie Roberts
13- Conrad Smith
14- Vincent Clerc
15 - Israel Dagg
2- William Servat
3- Adam Jones
4- Brad Thorn
5- Lionel Nallet
6 - David Pockock
7- Julien Bonnaire
8- Imanol Harinordoquy
9- Piri Weepu
10- Ryhs Priestland
11- James O'Connor
12- Jamie Roberts
13- Conrad Smith
14- Vincent Clerc
15 - Israel Dagg
detigny November 01, 2011 12:56 am
1-rodrigo roncero
2-william servat
3-owen franks
4-brad thorn
5-lionel nallet
6-thierry dusautoir
7-david pocock
8-imanol harinordoquy
9-will genia
10-morne steyn
11-george north
12-jamie roberts
13-ma'a nonu
14-james o'connor/cory jane
15-israel dagg
2-william servat
3-owen franks
4-brad thorn
5-lionel nallet
6-thierry dusautoir
7-david pocock
8-imanol harinordoquy
9-will genia
10-morne steyn
11-george north
12-jamie roberts
13-ma'a nonu
14-james o'connor/cory jane
15-israel dagg
Nausori November 01, 2011 1:27 am
nausori.
Woodcock(Healy)
Mealamu(William Servat)
Adam Jones(Owen Franks)
Nallet(Matfield)
Brad Thorn(Nakarawa)
Dannie Rossouw(Sean O'Brien)
David Pocock(Warburton)
Imanol Harinordoquy(Schalk Burger)
Mike Philips(Will Genia)
Rhys Priestland(Dan Carter)
Jamie Roberts(Ma'a Nonu)
Franz Steyn(Conrad Smith)
Cory Jane(George North)
Digby Ioane(James O'Connor)
Israel Dagg(James Hook)
Woodcock(Healy)
Mealamu(William Servat)
Adam Jones(Owen Franks)
Nallet(Matfield)
Brad Thorn(Nakarawa)
Dannie Rossouw(Sean O'Brien)
David Pocock(Warburton)
Imanol Harinordoquy(Schalk Burger)
Mike Philips(Will Genia)
Rhys Priestland(Dan Carter)
Jamie Roberts(Ma'a Nonu)
Franz Steyn(Conrad Smith)
Cory Jane(George North)
Digby Ioane(James O'Connor)
Israel Dagg(James Hook)
vwadia November 01, 2011 1:33 am
I'm surprised no one picked Mccaw at 7...he was in every ruck and he played magnificently even with an injured foot! He took all the other openside flankers to school....especially David Pocock. And its Dusatoir at 6 for me..
vwadia November 01, 2011 1:41 am
1-Cian Healy
2-Keven Mealamu
3-Adam Jones
4-Brad thorn
5-Lionel Nallet
6-Theirry Dusautoir
7-Richie Mccaw
8-Imanol Harinordoquy
9-Mike Phillips
10-Dan Carter
11-Shane Williams
12-Ma'a Nonu
13-Jamie Roberts
14-Cory Jane/Chris Ashton
15-James O'Connor/Israel Dagg
2-Keven Mealamu
3-Adam Jones
4-Brad thorn
5-Lionel Nallet
6-Theirry Dusautoir
7-Richie Mccaw
8-Imanol Harinordoquy
9-Mike Phillips
10-Dan Carter
11-Shane Williams
12-Ma'a Nonu
13-Jamie Roberts
14-Cory Jane/Chris Ashton
15-James O'Connor/Israel Dagg
WelshOsprey November 01, 2011 1:41 am
How the hell can they put dan carter at 10? Didnt he only play like 2 games?
Pretzel November 01, 2011 9:03 pm
I sort of wondered that as well... I mean the guy is a good player no question about that, but basing the lists on "team of the tournament"...how can DC possibly be considered...
hutch November 01, 2011 2:32 am
@reality Kaino. Average? were you watching a completely different tournament to the rest of us? no one stood up more as an individual (maybe McCaw) for the All Blacks the man played like a machine, was probably the most consistent player ( at a high standard ) throughout the whole world cup!
1. Cian Healy
2. Keven Mealamu
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Dimitri Yachvilli
10. Ryhs Priestland
11. George North
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
1. Cian Healy
2. Keven Mealamu
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Dimitri Yachvilli
10. Ryhs Priestland
11. George North
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
Joe November 01, 2011 3:24 am
Dan Carter at 10 definitely. Even though he played like 2 games theres no way Rhys Priestland was better than him.
1. Cain Healy
2. Marius Tincu
2. Owen Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Jerome Kaino
7. David Pocock
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips
10. Dan Carter (Preistland was good but even though Carter played 2 games it was enough to say he was still the best fly half by far)
11. James O'Connor
12. Ma'a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
1. Cain Healy
2. Marius Tincu
2. Owen Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Jerome Kaino
7. David Pocock
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips
10. Dan Carter (Preistland was good but even though Carter played 2 games it was enough to say he was still the best fly half by far)
11. James O'Connor
12. Ma'a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
i love bacon November 01, 2011 4:13 am
Hmmm...there seems to be some disagreement; let me put this matter to rest:
1 - Harinordoquy
2 - Harinordoquy
3 - Harinordoquy
4 - Harinordoquy
...
10 - Quade Cooper, just to agitate some more kiwis
...
14 - Harinordoquy
15 - Harinordoquy
You're welcome.
1 - Harinordoquy
2 - Harinordoquy
3 - Harinordoquy
4 - Harinordoquy
...
10 - Quade Cooper, just to agitate some more kiwis
...
14 - Harinordoquy
15 - Harinordoquy
You're welcome.
deadhead_08 November 01, 2011 9:33 am
1. Tony Woodcock
2. William Servat
3. Nicolas Mas
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. David Pocock
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Philips
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Cory Jane
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Aurélien Rougerie
14. Vincent Clerc
15. Israel Dagg
I think people forget Aurélien Rougerie quite easily, but he had an outstanding worldcup. Especially in the final. He must be the best player in the final after Dusautoir (alongside Bonnaire and Harinordoquy)
2. William Servat
3. Nicolas Mas
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. David Pocock
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Philips
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Cory Jane
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Aurélien Rougerie
14. Vincent Clerc
15. Israel Dagg
I think people forget Aurélien Rougerie quite easily, but he had an outstanding worldcup. Especially in the final. He must be the best player in the final after Dusautoir (alongside Bonnaire and Harinordoquy)
Eggman November 01, 2011 10:01 am
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Victor Matfield (Singlehandidly obliterated the Aussie lineout)
6. Thierry Dusautoir (Kaino close secon)
7. David Pocock (I think indivdually he's better than McCaw, who usually beats Pocock because he's got the superior pack as backup)
8. Harinordoquy
9. Prir Weepu
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Cory Jane (Switching Sides)
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Conrad Smith (Rougerie close second)
14. James O'Connor (George North close second)
15. Israel Dagg (Pity Beale was injured for the semis, I think he is the better overall fullback)
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Victor Matfield (Singlehandidly obliterated the Aussie lineout)
6. Thierry Dusautoir (Kaino close secon)
7. David Pocock (I think indivdually he's better than McCaw, who usually beats Pocock because he's got the superior pack as backup)
8. Harinordoquy
9. Prir Weepu
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Cory Jane (Switching Sides)
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Conrad Smith (Rougerie close second)
14. James O'Connor (George North close second)
15. Israel Dagg (Pity Beale was injured for the semis, I think he is the better overall fullback)
Xenophile November 01, 2011 10:12 am
This would be my XV based on flair and heart. Although they might not have been the "stars" of the tournament they certainly impressed me.
1. Rodrigo Ronsero
2. Bismark du Plessis
3. Owen Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Victor Matfield
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Schalk Burger (although Kleeberger was one of my RWC favourites)
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Rhys Priestland
11. George North
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Richard Kahui
14. James O'Connor
15. Paul Williams
1. Rodrigo Ronsero
2. Bismark du Plessis
3. Owen Franks
4. Brad Thorn
5. Victor Matfield
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Schalk Burger (although Kleeberger was one of my RWC favourites)
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Francois Hougaard
10. Rhys Priestland
11. George North
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Richard Kahui
14. James O'Connor
15. Paul Williams
stroudos November 01, 2011 11:20 am
Xenophile, you may ignore the last bit in my comment below complaining about people not selecting Pacific Islanders in their nominations. I really think Paul Williams was one of the stand-out players of the tournament.
stroudos November 01, 2011 11:06 am
I'd go along with the majority in most positions, but would like to put forward these lot also:
9 - Taniela Moa (Tonga), who was particularly awesome against France. In all games he seemed to be playing a couple of positions (scrum-half + back-row).
10 - Tusi Pisi - Gave the Samaons a shape and structure that in the past has been lacking.
15 - Paul Williams - had an awesome tourny and I also feel a strong sense of vicarious indignation on his behalf, for the wrong yellow for a solid tacke against Namibia and the outrageous red v SA following Brussow's despicable theatrics.
8 - 100% agree with Harinordoquy, (who it seems has every single nomination so far, bar the NZ Herald), however an honourable mention for George Stowers I think is deserved. Couple of good tries, an absolute beast in attack and Richie-esque in his pushing the limits of how much of a nuisance you can make yourself at the breakdown.
7 - I would like to have seen someone like Gorgodze, Jacque Burger or Finau Maka given some nod of acknowledgement here for the contributions they made despite their teams having to play on the back-foot most of the time.
It's no coincidence that nearly all my additional nominees are Pacific islanders. I don't have an islander agenda as such, but I do think the way Samoa and Tonga stepped up to the challenge this tourny and the individual performances of some of their players merits their inclusion in these lists. In fact, I think it's a bit perverse that no-one else so far has deigned to show them the recognition they deserve.
9 - Taniela Moa (Tonga), who was particularly awesome against France. In all games he seemed to be playing a couple of positions (scrum-half + back-row).
10 - Tusi Pisi - Gave the Samaons a shape and structure that in the past has been lacking.
15 - Paul Williams - had an awesome tourny and I also feel a strong sense of vicarious indignation on his behalf, for the wrong yellow for a solid tacke against Namibia and the outrageous red v SA following Brussow's despicable theatrics.
8 - 100% agree with Harinordoquy, (who it seems has every single nomination so far, bar the NZ Herald), however an honourable mention for George Stowers I think is deserved. Couple of good tries, an absolute beast in attack and Richie-esque in his pushing the limits of how much of a nuisance you can make yourself at the breakdown.
7 - I would like to have seen someone like Gorgodze, Jacque Burger or Finau Maka given some nod of acknowledgement here for the contributions they made despite their teams having to play on the back-foot most of the time.
It's no coincidence that nearly all my additional nominees are Pacific islanders. I don't have an islander agenda as such, but I do think the way Samoa and Tonga stepped up to the challenge this tourny and the individual performances of some of their players merits their inclusion in these lists. In fact, I think it's a bit perverse that no-one else so far has deigned to show them the recognition they deserve.
ruckinmaul November 03, 2011 7:16 pm
tusi pisi is world class player. my favourite for no10.
johndoe November 01, 2011 9:47 pm
Brüssow, no doubt. Acts hard as nails when his opponents back is to him, but face up to him and he shows his true colours.
rbieshaw November 01, 2011 12:46 pm
1. Cian Healy
2. Bismark du Plessis
3. Adam Jones
4. Victor Matfield
5. James Horwill (captain)
6. Stephen Ferris
7. Richie McCaw (outclassed Pocock in semi-final)
8. Imanol Harinordoquy (maybe Sergio Parisse but can't tell if he's the best because of the team around him)
9. Dimitri Yachvilli
10. Dan Carter (only Morne Steyn came close)
11. Digby Ionane
12. Ma'a Nonu
13. Aurelie Rougerie
14. George North
15. Israel Dagg (would be Beale if he would have been fit to showcase his quality)
2. Bismark du Plessis
3. Adam Jones
4. Victor Matfield
5. James Horwill (captain)
6. Stephen Ferris
7. Richie McCaw (outclassed Pocock in semi-final)
8. Imanol Harinordoquy (maybe Sergio Parisse but can't tell if he's the best because of the team around him)
9. Dimitri Yachvilli
10. Dan Carter (only Morne Steyn came close)
11. Digby Ionane
12. Ma'a Nonu
13. Aurelie Rougerie
14. George North
15. Israel Dagg (would be Beale if he would have been fit to showcase his quality)
COB November 01, 2011 12:59 pm
I cant stop laughing at so many of the number 11 selections above.
And the amount of players being picked out of position shows how little some folks know about the player, or the position.
And the amount of players being picked out of position shows how little some folks know about the player, or the position.
Irish November 01, 2011 2:33 pm
Glad to see Healy getting a mention in most teams. Should be involved in at least another 2 world cups (baring injury).
Fettsack November 01, 2011 3:14 pm
1.Woodcock
2.Servat
3.Adam Jones
4.Nallet
5.Thorn
6.Dussautoir
7.Pocock
8.Harinordoquy
9.Phillips
10.Priestland or Cruden
11.Ioani
12.Nonu
13.Roberts
14.North
15.Dagg.
Dagg and Harinordoquy are clearly 100% in this team of the tournament.
I didn't put any south africans because I barely saw them play.
2.Servat
3.Adam Jones
4.Nallet
5.Thorn
6.Dussautoir
7.Pocock
8.Harinordoquy
9.Phillips
10.Priestland or Cruden
11.Ioani
12.Nonu
13.Roberts
14.North
15.Dagg.
Dagg and Harinordoquy are clearly 100% in this team of the tournament.
I didn't put any south africans because I barely saw them play.
Matt November 01, 2011 5:11 pm
1. Rodrigo Roncero
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. James Horwill
5. Luke Charteris
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Mamuka Gorgodze
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Richard Kahui
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Brian O'Driscoll
14. George North
15. Israel Dagg
Subs: Nicolas Mas, Bismarck Du Plessis, Lionel Nallet, Thierry Dusautoir, Morgan Parra, Ma'a Nonu, Paul Williams
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. James Horwill
5. Luke Charteris
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Mamuka Gorgodze
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips
10. Rhys Priestland
11. Richard Kahui
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Brian O'Driscoll
14. George North
15. Israel Dagg
Subs: Nicolas Mas, Bismarck Du Plessis, Lionel Nallet, Thierry Dusautoir, Morgan Parra, Ma'a Nonu, Paul Williams
ruckinmaul November 03, 2011 7:18 pm
that georgian no7 is freaking huge. world class player no doubt. big club seriously need to buy him.
Matt November 05, 2011 1:06 pm
Well, he plays for Montpellier, Top 14 runner-up last year (with Trinh-Duc and Ouedraogo). Not yet a big club, but it will be interesting to see them in the H-Cup this year.
Gallego November 01, 2011 6:57 pm
1. Woodcock, 2. Mealamu, 3. A. Jones; 4. Horwill, 5. Nallet; 6. Kaino, 7. Warburton, 8. Harinordoquy. 9. Phillips, 10. Priestland; 11. Jane; 12. Nonu, 13. Smith; 14. Clerc, 15. Dagg.
Just Call Me Ehtch November 01, 2011 8:14 pm
The coach of a said team has got to be Marc Lievremont - he is completerly and utterly bonkers, and no doubt will get respect from said players. NURSE!
Trundle November 01, 2011 10:11 pm
I think that Pocock is the better 7. He was basically a one man army in the semi final; who knows what he could have done if he had the team to back him up... I also love that McCaw never limped or appeared to have any problems during game time but as soon as the matches were over - on came the limp.
nemo34 November 02, 2011 1:32 pm
Without taking into account injured players, ...
1 - Cian Healey
2 - Bismark Duplessis
3 - Adam Jones
4 - Thorn
5 - Horwill
6 - Dusautoir
7 - Gorgodze (Georgia)
8 - Harinordoquy
9 - Phillips
10 - Carter
11 - Kahui
12 - Roberts
13 - Smith
14 - Clerc
15 - Dagg
1 - Cian Healey
2 - Bismark Duplessis
3 - Adam Jones
4 - Thorn
5 - Horwill
6 - Dusautoir
7 - Gorgodze (Georgia)
8 - Harinordoquy
9 - Phillips
10 - Carter
11 - Kahui
12 - Roberts
13 - Smith
14 - Clerc
15 - Dagg
Pretzel November 02, 2011 3:39 pm
I find most of the lists on here are the sort of:
"If they are on top form blah blah blah then this is what I will pick" rather than a sort of numerically based, "how many games did they play, did they play well, who did they play, who do they play for" sort of set up....
As others have stated I found the majority of the "big" names who we normally watch and wait and (sometimes love to watch play) seemed to under perform this world cup...
- Wlkinson... ok, im sure many of you hate him but he is a "good player" (generally) he had a shocker of a world cup.
- Carter, again a brilliant player, but two games, against weak opposition (relatively) doesn't constitute a brilliant RWC 2011 player, in my eyes....
- Matfield.... I'm sorry... WHO?!?!? the guy was tearfully silent this WC... the guy was a good second row... but that was it, nothing that put him head and shoulders above everyone else... (unlike the RWC 2007 Matfield I know)
- BOD... oh come on, I mean I love watching the guy play, but he showed little this competition... which is hugely surprising, and hugely disappointing...
As I said, the whole thing is a bit of a "dream team" type of set up, and not really reflective on players performances, I mean Dusatoir won player of the tournament yet he is not in any of the line ups from the 3 articles... so who got it right/wrong?
"If they are on top form blah blah blah then this is what I will pick" rather than a sort of numerically based, "how many games did they play, did they play well, who did they play, who do they play for" sort of set up....
As others have stated I found the majority of the "big" names who we normally watch and wait and (sometimes love to watch play) seemed to under perform this world cup...
- Wlkinson... ok, im sure many of you hate him but he is a "good player" (generally) he had a shocker of a world cup.
- Carter, again a brilliant player, but two games, against weak opposition (relatively) doesn't constitute a brilliant RWC 2011 player, in my eyes....
- Matfield.... I'm sorry... WHO?!?!? the guy was tearfully silent this WC... the guy was a good second row... but that was it, nothing that put him head and shoulders above everyone else... (unlike the RWC 2007 Matfield I know)
- BOD... oh come on, I mean I love watching the guy play, but he showed little this competition... which is hugely surprising, and hugely disappointing...
As I said, the whole thing is a bit of a "dream team" type of set up, and not really reflective on players performances, I mean Dusatoir won player of the tournament yet he is not in any of the line ups from the 3 articles... so who got it right/wrong?
Sangdue November 02, 2011 7:37 pm
Instead of being a repeater I like to share some comments about some of the players that made an impact on me:
1. Adam Cleeburger (Canada). Looked like he stepped put of some cave back in the stone age. Tackle hungry and work rate like a warhorse.
2. Bismarck du Plessis (South Africa). Made me scared every time he went on. Not a single fault, accept that the coaches didn't play him.
3. Shan O´Brien (Ireland). One word: outstanding.
4. David Pocock (Australia). To be honest, the future at no.7 and already better then McCaw.
5. Mike Phillips (Wales). Passing, try scoring and genius thinking.
6. Rhys Priestland (Wales). Hello? Where did you come from? Best breakthrough i RWC.
7. Israel Dagg (New Zeeland). For one moment in the semifinal against Australia. How in Odens name did you keep that ball in play?
9. Morgan Parra (France). Did he ever miss?
10. Mario Ledsma (Argentina). 38? Sorry, 38? Are you sure?
11. Brad Thorn (New Zeeland). Those tears said it all for one of rugbys greatest.
12. Jerome Kaino (New Zeeland). For manhandling Ioane (funniest moment).
13. Hirotoki Onazawa (Japan). For one of RWC:s most heartwarming moments. "Am I about to score against the All Blacks, he seemed to think." Just lovely.
14. Sam Warburton (Wales). Made, as his name would suggest, war on the field.
15. Stephen Donald (New Zeeland). Not a single moment in the world cup, fourth in the ranks (behind the fish sticks in the freezer as we say Sweden) and still makes the kick. Hello, nobel prize? Or at least knighthood.
Here are some the didn't quite make the list:
1. Daniel Carter (sorry I love this player): But what an anticlimax. All Blacks winning without there best? player.
2. Quade Cooper (sorry I love this player): A sad sight. So much talent and genius but so little outcome. I feel for him.
3. England (i do not love this team): Were they there? Opps...sorry.
1. Adam Cleeburger (Canada). Looked like he stepped put of some cave back in the stone age. Tackle hungry and work rate like a warhorse.
2. Bismarck du Plessis (South Africa). Made me scared every time he went on. Not a single fault, accept that the coaches didn't play him.
3. Shan O´Brien (Ireland). One word: outstanding.
4. David Pocock (Australia). To be honest, the future at no.7 and already better then McCaw.
5. Mike Phillips (Wales). Passing, try scoring and genius thinking.
6. Rhys Priestland (Wales). Hello? Where did you come from? Best breakthrough i RWC.
7. Israel Dagg (New Zeeland). For one moment in the semifinal against Australia. How in Odens name did you keep that ball in play?
9. Morgan Parra (France). Did he ever miss?
10. Mario Ledsma (Argentina). 38? Sorry, 38? Are you sure?
11. Brad Thorn (New Zeeland). Those tears said it all for one of rugbys greatest.
12. Jerome Kaino (New Zeeland). For manhandling Ioane (funniest moment).
13. Hirotoki Onazawa (Japan). For one of RWC:s most heartwarming moments. "Am I about to score against the All Blacks, he seemed to think." Just lovely.
14. Sam Warburton (Wales). Made, as his name would suggest, war on the field.
15. Stephen Donald (New Zeeland). Not a single moment in the world cup, fourth in the ranks (behind the fish sticks in the freezer as we say Sweden) and still makes the kick. Hello, nobel prize? Or at least knighthood.
Here are some the didn't quite make the list:
1. Daniel Carter (sorry I love this player): But what an anticlimax. All Blacks winning without there best? player.
2. Quade Cooper (sorry I love this player): A sad sight. So much talent and genius but so little outcome. I feel for him.
3. England (i do not love this team): Were they there? Opps...sorry.
Lloyd_Wallace November 02, 2011 11:11 pm
You do know that Adam Kleeburger is a flanker you silly person
Lloyd_Wallace November 02, 2011 11:11 pm
You do know that Adam Kleeburger is a flanker you silly person
Sangdue November 03, 2011 8:07 am
I know that, this is a list of my personal favorites without any remark to their playing position. As a alternative dream team...if you like.
Anto November 03, 2011 12:46 pm
Ok there is alot of arguing here so ive decided to make the world cup best 15 as shown above :
1. Cian Healy (easily the most dynamic prop in the game)
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Thierry Dusatoir
7. Richie McCaw
8. Immanol Harinordiquy
9. Mike Phillips
10. Morne Steyn (Priestland played exceptional against ireland, but that was it)
11. James O'Connor
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Franz Steyn
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
the team listed above are the player who performed best during the tournament in my opinion.. however i think the best dream team based off performances in the last 5 years or so is more like this...
1. Cian Healy
2. Kevin Mealamu
3. Castrogiovanni
4. Brad Thorn
5. Victor Matfiield
6. Sean O'Brien
7. David Pocock
8. Heaslip/Harinordoquy.. (heaslip has a pathetic tournament but is sublime in form)
9. Morgan Parra
10. Dan Carter (easily.. best by far)
11. Vincent Clerc
12. Ma' Nonu
13. Brian O'Driscoll
14. Tommy Bowe (look him up on youtube if u disagree.. incredible)
15. Israel Dagg (didnt know of him before the tournament but he was so exceptional during it he takes the no. 15 jersey comfortably.
1. Cian Healy (easily the most dynamic prop in the game)
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. Lionel Nallet
6. Thierry Dusatoir
7. Richie McCaw
8. Immanol Harinordiquy
9. Mike Phillips
10. Morne Steyn (Priestland played exceptional against ireland, but that was it)
11. James O'Connor
12. Jamie Roberts
13. Franz Steyn
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
the team listed above are the player who performed best during the tournament in my opinion.. however i think the best dream team based off performances in the last 5 years or so is more like this...
1. Cian Healy
2. Kevin Mealamu
3. Castrogiovanni
4. Brad Thorn
5. Victor Matfiield
6. Sean O'Brien
7. David Pocock
8. Heaslip/Harinordoquy.. (heaslip has a pathetic tournament but is sublime in form)
9. Morgan Parra
10. Dan Carter (easily.. best by far)
11. Vincent Clerc
12. Ma' Nonu
13. Brian O'Driscoll
14. Tommy Bowe (look him up on youtube if u disagree.. incredible)
15. Israel Dagg (didnt know of him before the tournament but he was so exceptional during it he takes the no. 15 jersey comfortably.
moddeur November 03, 2011 1:45 pm
I realize that we are bound to name players from the bigger teams, in all fairness i think Gorgodze (Georgia) is an awesome player, so are Tekori, Castrogiovanni and a few others, but there just isn't enough room for everyone.
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Owen Franks / Nicolas Mas
4. Brad Thorn
5. Luke Charteris
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Sam Warburton (who in the world is McCaw??)
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Will Genia
10. Dan Carter
11. Shane Williams
12. Frans Steyn
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Paul Williams / Kurtley Beale
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Owen Franks / Nicolas Mas
4. Brad Thorn
5. Luke Charteris
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Sam Warburton (who in the world is McCaw??)
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Will Genia
10. Dan Carter
11. Shane Williams
12. Frans Steyn
13. Conrad Smith
14. Cory Jane
15. Paul Williams / Kurtley Beale
Pretzel November 03, 2011 2:59 pm
Im surprised no one has included Joubert in their teams, I thought he played fantastically for the AB's. ;)
Pretzel November 03, 2011 3:00 pm
Im surprised no one has included Joubert in their teams, I thought he played fantastically for the AB's. ;)
Javier Xavier November 04, 2011 6:02 am
- Adam Jones. When he didn't play in the Bronze the Welsh scrum lost to the Aussies' backup 2nd row. There is nothing more to say!
- Stephen Moore. A beast in the open and one of the main reasons the Aussies had such a solid D. Solid counter-rucker. Mealamu still best in the tourney, though.
- Wings: overall kind of a disappointment this WC. Clerc was really not that good during the tournament, he is getting a lot of nominations only as a consolation for France (sort of like Dusatoir player of the year). Ioane was very threatening and deserved man of the match for AUS against Italy. Unfortunately hurt for a good chunk of the tourney. Corey Jane was rock solid at 14, as was Kahui at 11. And Ashton -- okay, he is a douche, and I hate swan dives, but certainly you can't fault him for England's poor performance? He did everything that was asked of him and scored 4 or 5 tries. Tough to fault the man.
McCaw vs. Pockok. Pockok had the single most disruptive game of the WC by any player vs. SA, no question about it. But McCaw was still more decisive in the semi and final, he played well in both of them and outplayed Pockok in the former. It's a passing of the torch but the nod goes to McCaw. Btw I was watching some old footage of 2001 3N and it is amazing the impact that these modern fetchers have on the game. The ball used to come out of rucks much more quickly than it does now! Not sure if it is an improvement....
- Stephen Moore. A beast in the open and one of the main reasons the Aussies had such a solid D. Solid counter-rucker. Mealamu still best in the tourney, though.
- Wings: overall kind of a disappointment this WC. Clerc was really not that good during the tournament, he is getting a lot of nominations only as a consolation for France (sort of like Dusatoir player of the year). Ioane was very threatening and deserved man of the match for AUS against Italy. Unfortunately hurt for a good chunk of the tourney. Corey Jane was rock solid at 14, as was Kahui at 11. And Ashton -- okay, he is a douche, and I hate swan dives, but certainly you can't fault him for England's poor performance? He did everything that was asked of him and scored 4 or 5 tries. Tough to fault the man.
McCaw vs. Pockok. Pockok had the single most disruptive game of the WC by any player vs. SA, no question about it. But McCaw was still more decisive in the semi and final, he played well in both of them and outplayed Pockok in the former. It's a passing of the torch but the nod goes to McCaw. Btw I was watching some old footage of 2001 3N and it is amazing the impact that these modern fetchers have on the game. The ball used to come out of rucks much more quickly than it does now! Not sure if it is an improvement....
Pretzel November 04, 2011 12:19 pm
Other reasons it comes out slower is the laws against using the boot...
In the old days Richie would come out of those rucks with more stripes than a zebra, these days its rare anyone can use the boot, generally the scrum half gets a dig in, but i have seen penalties for that too....so someone like mccaw who you said "played well" in the final, can do a lot more with less "punishments"...
I don't fault the guy, you do what you can in rugby. At the end of the day he played the most disruptive game he could (which is what a 7 does) and played to the referee.
I do somehow wonder if there is some sort of psychological fear about carding him, i know it sounds conspiracy theorist but i'd imagine many other 7's would be booked if they did what he did....or maybe he is good at doing it on the otherside from the ref :/
In the old days Richie would come out of those rucks with more stripes than a zebra, these days its rare anyone can use the boot, generally the scrum half gets a dig in, but i have seen penalties for that too....so someone like mccaw who you said "played well" in the final, can do a lot more with less "punishments"...
I don't fault the guy, you do what you can in rugby. At the end of the day he played the most disruptive game he could (which is what a 7 does) and played to the referee.
I do somehow wonder if there is some sort of psychological fear about carding him, i know it sounds conspiracy theorist but i'd imagine many other 7's would be booked if they did what he did....or maybe he is good at doing it on the otherside from the ref :/
moddeur November 04, 2011 6:25 pm
Everyone knows that McCaw has an invisibility cloak, gift of Bilbo Baggins.
Dutchie November 11, 2011 5:34 pm
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. James Horwill
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Sam Warburton
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips (or Yachvili)
10. Rhys Priestland (Trinh-duc if he had played more, he was great in the final)
11. George North
12. Ma'a. Nonu
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. James Horwill
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Sam Warburton
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips (or Yachvili)
10. Rhys Priestland (Trinh-duc if he had played more, he was great in the final)
11. George North
12. Ma'a. Nonu
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
Dutchie November 11, 2011 5:34 pm
1. Cian Healy
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. James Horwill
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Sam Warburton
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips (or Yachvili)
10. Rhys Priestland (Trinh-duc if he had played more, he was great in the final)
11. George North
12. Ma'a. Nonu
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
2. William Servat
3. Adam Jones
4. Brad Thorn
5. James Horwill
6. Thierry Dusautoir
7. Sam Warburton
8. Imanol Harinordoquy
9. Mike Phillips (or Yachvili)
10. Rhys Priestland (Trinh-duc if he had played more, he was great in the final)
11. George North
12. Ma'a. Nonu
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. Cory Jane
15. Israel Dagg
Alicoe November 25, 2011 2:09 pm
I struggle to see how so many people are over looking McCaw at 7.
He was by far better than any other back row player despite being injured. Against OZ he was all over Pocock for 80 mins.
He was by far better than any other back row player despite being injured. Against OZ he was all over Pocock for 80 mins.
Sam December 03, 2011 5:11 pm
No Irish? not to be too biased but you've left out:
Cian Healy - the best ball carrying front-row player in the world.
Sean O'Brien- the best ball carrying forward in the world.
Paul O'Connell- work horse
and although past his prime you can't have a world xv without BO'D.
1. Cian Healy- best ball carrying front row
2. Bismarck du Plessis- was like a caged lion everytime he came on, ridiculous he didnt start
3. Jeannie du Plessis (Adam Jones)- great scrummagers
4. Victor Matfield- line-out maestro
5. Brad Thorne (Paul O'Connell)- incredible work- horses
6. Thierry Dusautoir- impossible to get away from him. everywhere always
7. David Pocock- so disruptive
8. Sean O'Brien- ram -tank of a human being, outstanding
9. Mike Phillips- he's like a flanker who can pass
10. Trinh-duc (not incl. Carter)- one of the only outhalfs to really impress
11. Tuilagi- may not be as skillfull as the others but lets be honest who would you have running at you, him or corey jane?
12. Jamie Roberts (Ma'a Nonu)- powerful carriers with good hands
13. Brian O'Driscoll- greatest centre ever. no argument
14. Israel Dagg- seems to have it all
15. Kurtley Beale- dangerous under the high ball
Cian Healy - the best ball carrying front-row player in the world.
Sean O'Brien- the best ball carrying forward in the world.
Paul O'Connell- work horse
and although past his prime you can't have a world xv without BO'D.
1. Cian Healy- best ball carrying front row
2. Bismarck du Plessis- was like a caged lion everytime he came on, ridiculous he didnt start
3. Jeannie du Plessis (Adam Jones)- great scrummagers
4. Victor Matfield- line-out maestro
5. Brad Thorne (Paul O'Connell)- incredible work- horses
6. Thierry Dusautoir- impossible to get away from him. everywhere always
7. David Pocock- so disruptive
8. Sean O'Brien- ram -tank of a human being, outstanding
9. Mike Phillips- he's like a flanker who can pass
10. Trinh-duc (not incl. Carter)- one of the only outhalfs to really impress
11. Tuilagi- may not be as skillfull as the others but lets be honest who would you have running at you, him or corey jane?
12. Jamie Roberts (Ma'a Nonu)- powerful carriers with good hands
13. Brian O'Driscoll- greatest centre ever. no argument
14. Israel Dagg- seems to have it all
15. Kurtley Beale- dangerous under the high ball
Sam December 03, 2011 5:20 pm
Really? O'Connell was absolutely everywhere in every game. Incredible work rate
newfie December 15, 2011 9:20 pm
1. Mtawarira
2. Bennett
3. Mas
4. Thorne
5. charteris
6. Dusautoir
7. McCaw
8. Faletau
9. Phillips
10. Steyn
11. Tuilagi
12. M. Tuilagi
13. Fourie
14. Dagg
15. F. Steyn
Tuilagi bros will run through anyone, morn led the tourney in scoring and frans had a trying every game he played.
2. Bennett
3. Mas
4. Thorne
5. charteris
6. Dusautoir
7. McCaw
8. Faletau
9. Phillips
10. Steyn
11. Tuilagi
12. M. Tuilagi
13. Fourie
14. Dagg
15. F. Steyn
Tuilagi bros will run through anyone, morn led the tourney in scoring and frans had a trying every game he played.
newfie December 15, 2011 9:26 pm
and the bench:
16. Du Plessis
17. Jones
18. Nallet
19. Pocock
20. Genia
21. Priestland
22. Sonny Bill Williams
16. Du Plessis
17. Jones
18. Nallet
19. Pocock
20. Genia
21. Priestland
22. Sonny Bill Williams
12fieldkh1 January 09, 2012 2:01 pm
dan carter played 2 games, against tonga, and a very below average france, so how can you consider him for team of the tourny
clemz75 April 12, 2012 6:02 pm
when all is said and done the team of the tournament is the men wearing the black coz thats what history will remember. can you remember who the best loose head prop was in 1991?
Keep it real January 01, 2013 1:46 pm
1.Rodrigo Roncero
2.Kevin Mealamu
3.Owen Franks (more efficient than adam jones)
4.Brad Thorne
5.Patricio Albacete (won nearly all his line outs an lead Argentina's forward pack with Juan Fernandez Lobbe)
6.Jerome Kaino
7.David Pocock
8.Imanol Haridordoquy (Fernandez Lobbe bowed out too soon)
9.Mike Philips (Will Guinea didn't shine as much as he could of)
10.Dan Carter (he is by far the best in the world)
11.George North
12.Ma'a Nonu
13.Jaque Fourie (everybody seems to forget him)
14.Cory Jane
15.Israel Dagg (no doubt, don't know why people are doubting)
2.Kevin Mealamu
3.Owen Franks (more efficient than adam jones)
4.Brad Thorne
5.Patricio Albacete (won nearly all his line outs an lead Argentina's forward pack with Juan Fernandez Lobbe)
6.Jerome Kaino
7.David Pocock
8.Imanol Haridordoquy (Fernandez Lobbe bowed out too soon)
9.Mike Philips (Will Guinea didn't shine as much as he could of)
10.Dan Carter (he is by far the best in the world)
11.George North
12.Ma'a Nonu
13.Jaque Fourie (everybody seems to forget him)
14.Cory Jane
15.Israel Dagg (no doubt, don't know why people are doubting)
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