All Black Richie McCaw is the greatest openside flanker of all time and as captain won back-to-back World Cups
Richie McCaw
The New Zealand skipper is the most-capped player of all time and is widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever grace the game.
McCaw guided the All Blacks to their first World Cup triumph in 24 years in 2011, playing in the 8-7 final victory over France through gritted teeth as he had a foot injury.
Renowned for his work at the breakdown, ferocity in the tackle and, above all, his tough-as-teak nature, McCaw has been awarded the Player of the Year gong a record three times. The openside won his first cap in 2001 and was named captain five years later.
He suffered disappointment at the 2003 and 2007 World Cups as the All Blacks were dumped out at the semi-final and quarter-final stages respectively. But that was all to change four years later.
McCaw will again lead out the All Blacks at his fourth World Cup next month (September), with his side the overwhelming favourites to land back-to-back titles.
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