Rugby pedigree doesn’t come much stronger than this.
Sir Ian McGeechan isn’t just a coach — he’s British & Irish Lions royalty. A veteran of six Lions tours, including four as head coach, “Geech” has earned legendary status through decades at the very top of the game.
A master strategist, inspirational leader and one of rugby’s great thinkers, McGeechan has helped shape generations of players and coaches. Now 77, his influence on the sport remains as strong as ever. When Geech speaks, the rugby world still listens.
Writing in The Telegraph, McGeechan has unveiled his all-time XV — and it’s stacked. Six All Blacks, three English, two Welsh, plus one apiece from France, Scotland and Ireland.
As for his top five players of all time? Let’s just say England and Wales dominate the conversation.
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#5. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
Revered as rugby’s unstoppable force, Lomu was a New Zealand legend whose mere presence struck fear into opponents.
His unmatched blend of size, speed, and skill revolutionised wing play, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
McGeechan wrote: “Illness and injury ultimately slowed him down.
“But his performances at the 1995 World Cup, just as the game was turning professional, will never be forgotten.
“The game needed a superstar, and it got one in Lomu. He was brilliant for rugby.”
