A poll of 2,000 rugby fans has revealed the greatest Six Nations player of all time, with 10% of people suggesting Italy should no longer be in the tournament
The Six Nations rugby tournament is set to resume this Friday with a match between Italy and Wales. Ireland is tipped as the favourite to clinch the championship title again this year, which could result in their third consecutive victory.
A quarter of fans believe England will emerge victorious, while only 1% think Italy has what it takes to win. Interestingly, 10% have suggested that Italy should no longer participate in the tournament.
In anticipation of this year’s tournament, a survey of 2,000 rugby enthusiasts has unveiled the nation’s most beloved rugby player.
Irish captain Brian O’Driscoll ranked fourth on the list, his fearless play securing his status as one of the most thrilling players in Six Nations history.
English rugby supporters also celebrated Martin Johnson, whose ball-carrying prowess and physical resilience have made him a contemporary icon, earning him fifth place.
However, it was English legend Jonny Wilkinson who was crowned the greatest Six Nations player of all time, surpassing Welsh stars Sir Gareth Edwards and JPR Williams.
The World Cup-winning fly-half had an illustrious career, earning a total of 91 caps for England and collecting numerous trophies at club level.
A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which conducted the research in conjunction with its Sportsbook team, commented: “We’ve been lucky enough to have seen some incredible players down the years.”
“As the Five Nations evolved into Six, some things haven’t changed at all when it comes to making yourself a hero of the game. It’s not just about winning, it’s about how they made fans feel and their contributions to thrilling matches,” was the sentiment expressed.
Fans prioritised teamwork and the ability to uplift teammates as the qualities they most desired in players to earn them ‘GOAT’ status. A third of fans emphasised the need for consistent performance across games, along with superior technical skills.
However, 23% voiced their preference for a player who displayed passion and pride when representing their country. Nearly one in five fans were so inspired by a Five or Six Nations player that they would consider naming their child after them if they hadn’t already done so.
A spokesperson for Lottoland commented: “Rugby fans are as passionate off the pitch as the players are on it, and the Six Nations always sparks lively debates about the legends of the game.”
“From record-breaking moments to unforgettable performances, every fan has their favourites-and that’s what makes these conversations so engaging.”
“The beauty of rugby is that every generation has its icons, and the Six Nations is the stage where many of them shine.”
THE TOP SIX NATIONS PLAYERS OF ALL TIME:
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Jonny Wilkinson – England
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Gareth Edwards – Wales
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JPR Williams – Wales
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Brian O’Driscoll – Ireland
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Martin Johnson – England
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Johnny Sexton – Ireland
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Lawrence Dallaglio – England
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Gavin Hastings – Scotland
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Serge Blanco – France
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Alun Wyn Jones – Wales
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Jonathan Davies (Jiffy) – Wales
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Jason Robinson – England
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Ronan O’Gara – Ireland
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Antoine Dupont – France
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Shane Williams – Wales
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Sam Warburton – Wales
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Jeremy Guscott – England
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Willie John McBride – Ireland
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Jason Leonard – England
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Chris Patterson – Scotland
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Sergio Parisse – Italy
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Ieuan Evans – Wales
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Mike Gibson – Ireland
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Paul O’Connell – Ireland
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Richard Hill – England
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Christophe Dominici – France
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Keith Wood – Ireland
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John Dawes – Wales
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Philippe Sella – France
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Tommy Bowe – Ireland