The legendary All Blacks duo won back-to-back Rugby World Cups together in 2011 and 2015, cementing their status as two of the greatest players in rugby history.
Now, former fly-half Dan Carter has reunited with ex-captain Richie McCaw for the first episode of a two-part interview series. The pair reflected on McCaw’s legendary preparation, from his meticulous pre-match routines to his surprising talent for playing the bagpipes.
Throughout his career, McCaw built a reputation for leaving no stone unturned, with his relentless pursuit of improvement helping turn him into one of the most successful captains the sport has ever seen.
So who did the iconic duo name as the toughest opponents they ever faced?
#4. Schalk Burger (South Africa)
Position: Back-row
Height: 6 ft 4 in
Weight: 242 lb
Caps: 86
Richie McCaw said:
“You can come up against another tough team but never feel like you have had a tough match against your opposite. But with Burger you knew where they are going to be and how hard they play near the ball.”
Dan Carter said:
“I kept looking at my All Black jersey wondering if I had a target in the middle of it because he kept coming for me. He just kept going. He didn’t stop. A real competitor and absolute top bloke off the field as well.”
Did you know?
Burger overcame a life-threatening bout of bacterial meningitis in 2013, returning to international rugby the following year.
Bio:
Schalk Burger, one of the fiercest Springboks of his generation, was known for his aggression, courage, and leadership. The 2004 IRB Player of the Year helped South Africa win the 2007 Rugby World Cup and became a symbol of resilience after his remarkable comeback from serious illness.
