Blindside flankers are known for their relentless work at the breakdown and defensive prowess. However, the greatest blindside flankers have transcended these roles, leaving an indelible mark on the game with their leadership, work rate, and ability to perform when it matters most. Here are the top five greatest blindside flankers in rugby history, each with their own legacy that goes beyond just the basics of the position.
1. Siya Kolisi (South Africa)
Siya Kolisi’s legacy goes beyond his on-field ability—his leadership and influence have transformed South African rugby and the global perception of the sport. As South Africa’s first black captain to lift the Rugby World Cup, Kolisi became a symbol of unity and hope for the nation. His leadership and unrelenting work rate were key to the Springboks’ success in the 2019 World Cup, where he guided the team to a memorable victory. Kolisi’s contributions are not limited to his leadership; his breakdown work, defensive intensity, and contributions to the attack make him one of the most complete flankers in history.
Achievements: Two Rugby World Cups (2019, 2023), Two Rugby Championships, British & Irish Lions series victory, Currie Cup titles, 92 caps for South Africa.
2. Neil Back (England)
Neil Back was a pivotal figure in the England back row during their dominant era in the late 1990s and early 2000s. A crucial part of England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, Back was known for his exceptional work at the breakdown, his tackling, and his intelligent approach to the game. His leadership and ability to perform in crucial moments were vital to England’s success, particularly in their 1995 and 2003 Five/Six Nations Grand Slam campaigns. Back’s passion and consistency made him a key figure for both club and country, with his tireless work ethic earning him a spot as one of the finest flankers in rugby history.
Achievements: Rugby World Cup title (2003), Six Nations Grand Slam (2003), Six Nations Championship titles, 66 caps for England.
3. Francois Pienaar (South Africa)
Francois Pienaar holds a special place in South African rugby history, not only for his playing ability but also for his monumental leadership during South Africa’s first Rugby World Cup victory in 1995. Captaining the team to that win, alongside Nelson Mandela, Pienaar was at the forefront of a transformative era for South African rugby. His leadership transcended the rugby field, becoming a symbol of national unity during a time of great political change. Pienaar’s blend of grit, leadership, and skill on the field makes him one of the most iconic blindside flankers to have played the game.
Achievements: Rugby World Cup title (1995), Super 10 title, Lion Cup title, Currie Cup titles, 29 caps for South Africa.
4. Richard Hill (England)
Richard Hill’s legacy in rugby is built on his consistency, work rate, and extraordinary ability at the breakdown. He was the cornerstone of England’s back row during their 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning campaign. Hill’s leadership and calm under pressure made him irreplaceable, and his tireless work in defense, especially in winning turnovers, helped secure England’s place at the top of world rugby. His contribution to England’s success in the Six Nations and his performances in key international fixtures solidified his status as one of the greatest flankers in rugby history.
Achievements: Rugby World Cup title (2003), Three Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2003, 71 caps for England.
5. Jerry Collins (New Zealand)
Jerry Collins was a fierce competitor known for his physicality and ability to dominate in both attack and defense. As one of the most feared flankers of his generation, Collins was a key figure in the All Blacks’ successes throughout the 2000s. His hard-hitting tackles and tireless work at the breakdown made him a vital player for both New Zealand and the Hurricanes. Collins’ ability to make a significant impact in crucial moments, especially in the 2005 Lions series, demonstrated his importance to the All Blacks’ continued success.
Achievements: Tri-Nations titles, Bledisloe Cup titles, Mandela Cup, 48 caps for the All Blacks
Conclusion:
These five blindside flankers are not only remembered for their physicality and work rate but also for the leadership and skill they brought to the game. From Kolisi’s transformative leadership with South Africa to Pienaar’s role in uniting a nation, each player shaped rugby history in their unique way. Their achievements, both on and off the field, set a benchmark for future generations of flankers, ensuring their places as legends in the sport.