Fans' World XV of the Decade; Vote for the best fullback of the 2010s

Mon, Dec 30, 2019, 7:30 AM
AAP
by AAP
Who was the best fullback of the 2010s?
Who was the best fullback of the 2010s?

It's time to put the final piece of the puzzle into the fans' World XV of the decade.

With the forward pack and almost all the backs chosen, it's time to vote for the best fullback of the past 10 years.

Adept in attack and defence with a strong kicking game, the fullbacks often have a licence to roam with the back three and are among the most exciting players on the field, while outstanding at communicating and marshalling the defensive line.

Pick your no.15 from the six candidates below.

Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)

Another mainstay of the Welsh side over the past decade, Halfpenny has been magnificent at the back for Wales and the British and Irish Lions in 89 Tests. Strong in the air and outstanding defensively, Halfpenny was crucial in helping Wales return to a force in world rugby.

Israel Folau (Australia)

Regardless of any off-field controversy, there can be no debate about Folau's ability on the field. In 73 Tests after making his debut in 2013, the former rugby league international stamped himself as one of the stars of world rugby, with his unparalleled work in the air and strong ball running. Three-time winner of the John Eales Medal.

Israel Dagg (New Zealand)

Played 66 Tests for the all Blacks after making his debut in 2010 against Ireland and was among their best in 2011 as they won the World Cup, although injury prevented him from going back-to-back in 2015. Moved to the wing late in his career after being replaced by Ben Smith at no.15.

Ben Smith (New Zealand)

After starting his All Blacks career as a winger, Smith eventually became the All Blacks no.1 choice at fullback, with Israel Dagg switching to the wing. Smith was dropped earlier this year after the Kiwis' record loss to the Wallabies in Perth. Although selected for the World Cup, he did not play the quarter-final or semi-final but played a final Test in the bronze medal playoff against Wales.

Willie Le Roux (South Africa)

Le Roux made an almost immediate impact after making his debut in 2013, becoming a nominee for the world player of the year the following season. A World Cup winner with the Springboks this year, le Roux earnt his 61st cap in the final against England in Yokohama.

Stuart Hogg (Scotland)

Played 72 Tests for Scotland and was a two-time British and Irish Lions tourist, as well as winning back-to-back awards as player of the Six Nations tournament. His enormous workrate, consistency and attacking ability have made him one of Scotland's best over the past decade.

 

 
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