In the New Zealand Herald on 13 December, Gregor Paul picked his World Team of the Year.
It was:
15. Adam Ashley-Cooper, Australia
14. Cory Jane, New Zealand
13. Brian O’Driscoll, Ireland
12. Jamie Roberts, Wales
11. Bryan Habana, South Africa
10. Dan Carter, New Zealand
9. Fourie du Preez, South Africa
8. Sergio Parisse, Italy
7. Richie McCaw, New Zealand
6. Thierry Dusautoir, France
5. Victor Matfield, South Africa
4. Bakkies Botha. South Africa
3. Martin Castrogiovanni, Italy
2. Bismarck du Plessis, South Africa
1. Benn Robinson, Australia
I think this is an excellent team.
My only disagreements with Paul would be that I would have selected Rob Kearney of Ireland as full-back (although Ashley-Cooper would be the first back reserve selected – he is a better winger and centre than a full-back), Louis Picamoles from France would replace Parisse as No. 8 (Picamoles was missing in France’s two test losses against New Zealand in 2009, after starring in the first test in NZ as well as against SA in Toulouse).
I also think Polata-Nau from Australia offers more than Bismarck du Plessis around the field. He is also not the puffed-up bully that du Plessis tries to be.
What do Roar readers think of this team?
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