Continuing our series on the greatest rugby players of all time, today we take a look at the hooker position. Often seen as the unsung hero of the team, the hooker is responsible for a number of crucial roles on the field, from throwing in the lineout to securing possession in the scrum. These next five players have been key to their teams’ successes, and having one of them on your side undoubtedly made a coach’s job a lot easier.
1. Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand)
A true master tactician and an iconic presence on the field, Sean Fitzpatrick is widely regarded as one of the best hookers to ever play the game. His leadership qualities were exceptional, and as the captain of the All Blacks, he steered his team to many victories, including the inaugural Rugby World Cup. Known for his toughness and competitive nature, Fitzpatrick was a player who could lead by example. His incredible list of achievements includes a World Cup title, Super Rugby championships, and a historic 1996 series win against South Africa. He was inducted into the Rugby Hall of Fame in 2001 and was named one of the greatest rugby players of the 20th century.
Achievements: World Cup winner, Super Rugby titles, Rugby Hall of Fame inductee (2001), named one of the top players of the 20th century.
2. John Smit (South Africa)
John Smit was a leader both on and off the field. Calm, composed, and a true inspiration to his teammates, he captained South Africa to victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Smit was a key figure in the Springboks’ rise during his career, leading his team to triumphs in various major tournaments. His leadership was pivotal as South Africa won the Tri Nations series in 2004 and again in 2009, when they defeated the British & Irish Lions in a memorable series. Smit’s cool demeanor and ability to perform in high-pressure situations made him one of rugby’s finest captains.
Achievements: World Cup champion (2007), Tri Nations titles (2004, 2009), Rugby Hall of Fame inductee (2011).
3. Phil Kearns (Australia)
Phil Kearns played a pivotal role in the golden years of Australian rugby, contributing to their two World Cup victories in 1991 and 1999. His fearless approach to the game and his immense skill set made him a standout player during his time. Kearns was a key figure in the Wallabies’ memorable contests against the All Blacks, with several hard-fought Bledisloe Cup victories over the years. His rivalry with Sean Fitzpatrick was legendary, as both players often found themselves competing for the title of the world’s best hooker.
Achievements: World Cup winner (1991, 1999), Bledisloe Cup titles.
4. Keith Wood (Ireland)
A true force of nature, Keith Wood was one of rugby’s most dynamic and skillful hookers. His athleticism, skill, and leadership on the field made him a true standout for Ireland and the British & Irish Lions. Wood was known for his hard-hitting style and his ability to make an impact in every game. In 1997, he was part of the Lions team that secured a historic series victory against South Africa. Wood was also the inaugural IRB Player of the Year and earned a place in the Rugby Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport.
Achievements: IRB Player of the Year, British & Irish Lions series winner (1997), Rugby Hall of Fame inductee.
5. Dane Coles (New Zealand)
Dane Coles may have recently retired, but his legacy as one of the greatest hookers of the modern era is secure. Known for his lightning pace and slick handling skills, Coles was a key player in the All Blacks’ triumph at the 2015 Rugby World Cup. He also captained the Hurricanes to their first-ever Super Rugby title in 2016. Coles’ ability to blend the traditional attributes of a hooker with explosive speed and skill made him a unique player in his position.
Achievements: World Cup winner (2015), Super Rugby champion (2016), Rugby Championship titles, Bledisloe Cup victories.
The hooker position has always been vital to the success of a rugby team, and these five players exemplified the skill, leadership, and toughness required to excel in this role. While some notable players may have missed out on this list, there’s no doubt that these athletes were among the very best to ever wear the number 2 jersey. Stay tuned for our next installment where we’ll be diving into the greatest tighthead props of all time. You won’t want to miss it!