Since the dawn of time, people liked to spend their free time doing something they enjoy. Sometimes, that could be a hobby, like chess or reading, but more often than not, people just want to relax and unwind, especially after a hard day at work. One mode of entertainment that has persisted for centuries is sports. Some people like to play for fun, but most like to watch and enjoy – perhaps even place a few bets on online betting sites. In various parts of the world, but especially in the British Isles, rugby is one of the most popular sports among the general public. Ever since its origins in the 19th century, it has quickly spread to all the countries of the Commonwealth, where it remains very popular even today. Some players have, of course, excelled in the game, and have reached almost legendary status among their teammates. This is a list of some of the best.

1. Zinzan Brooke

This rugby player from New Zealand is considered to be one of the best in history. He was the captain of the Auckland Blues when they won the Super 12 championships in 1996 and 1997.

2. Gareth Edwards

The BBC called this Welsh player one of the greatest to ever wear the colors of Wales. Playing for the national team in 53 matches, he managed to score 88 points total and brought great results to the clubs he played in. He was also awarded an Order of the British Empire for his achievements in rugby.

3. Martin Johnson

The first English player on this list, Johnson was captain of the English national team when they won the World Cup in 2003, and he was also the captain of the Leicester Tigers when they won the trophy of the national league –six times.

4. Carlos Spencer

This former New Zealand player is considered one of the greatest in the history of rugby. He held the position of fly-half and was declared Player of the Year in 2005. Currently, he is the coach of the Eastern Province Kings in South Africa.

5. Dan Carter

Also from New Zealand, Dan Carter is considered to be one of New Zealand’s greatest scorers ever, having scored 1,442 points for the national team. He also led the All Blacks to victory in the 2011 World Cup.

6. Brian O’Driscoll

This former Irish outside center was one of the most popular players ever. He was the captain of Ireland’s national team from 2003 to 2012, and he also played for Leinster, where he single-handedly made the club one of the best in Europe.

7. Richie McCaw

McCaw is arguably the most successful of all the athletes on this list, being the captain in 2011 and 2015, when the All Blacks won the World Cup and having won the Rugby Player of the Year title on three occasions, in 2006, 2009, and 2010. He played a record number of times as the captain of the New Zealand national team, in 110 matches.