Jonny Wilkinson’s unforgettable try against New Zealand in 2002 remains a timeless spectacle, with the YouTube video garnering over half a million views.
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In a showdown against the formidable All Blacks, Wilkinson, celebrated as the era’s premier fly half, showcased his unmatched talent with a breathtaking try, leaving spectators awestruck.
Fans from all corners of the rugby world continue to express admiration for Wilkinson’s skill and tenacity. Even supporters of rival teams, such as the All Blacks, acknowledge his exceptional prowess. Reflecting on his impact, one fan noted, “Now there’s someone that delivers at the highest level, and in style.”
The enduring influence of Wilkinson’s brilliance is evident as viewers draw parallels between his performance and the playing styles of contemporary stars. “I can see where England’s Marcus Smith got his inspiration from! He did a very similar move recently. Flawless,” remarked one viewer, underscoring Wilkinson’s lasting legacy.
Wilkinson’s ability to perform under pressure, combined with his undeniable flair, solidifies his status as a sporting legend.
His overall performance that day was something to remember.
Jonny Wilkinson and Johnny Sexton feature on rugby’s ultimate rich list for 2024
The rugby world isn’t just about breathtaking tries and fierce tackles; it’s also a realm where fortunes are made. Here’s the lowdown on the top six wealthiest rugby stars right now:
6. Johnny Sexton – £3.16m
Legendary kicker has been around the game for years before hanging up his boots following the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Trading his jersey for a business suit, the ex-fly-half has taken on the role of commercial manager at Ardagh Group, a powerhouse in the glass and metal industry headquartered in Luxembourg.
Ardagh Group boasts a global footprint as a leading provider of sustainable metal and glass packaging, boasting a sprawling network of 63 production facilities, a workforce of 20,000, and a jaw-dropping revenue exceeding £7.2 billion.
5. Mike Tindall – £9.98 million
A member of the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning squad, Mike Tindall has had his fair share of off-field challenges. Despite legal troubles, his net worth stands at an impressive £9.98 million.
4. Jonny Wilkinson – £20.9 million
Jonny Wilkinson’s iconic Rugby World Cup-winning drop goal in 2003 has translated into substantial wealth. As the second-richest Rugby World Cup winner, Wilkinson’s financial success is a testament to his on-field brilliance.
3. Sonny Bill Williams – £21.8 million
A dual-sport star in Union and League, Sonny Bill Williams, made waves in endorsements and earned well during his stint in France. His net worth stands at an impressive £21.8 million.
2. Sir Bill Gammell – £38.8 million
Former Scottish rugby player turned businessman, Sir Bill Gammell, is a knight, philanthropist, and a friend to political leaders. With a net worth exceeding £38.8 million, Gammell is poised for success even beyond the rugby pitch.
1. Simon McDowell – £39.3 million
Refereeing at two Rugby World Cups, Simon McDowell’s journey from player to referee has been financially rewarding. His net worth, driven primarily by his chemical company Kilwaughter, exceeds an impressive £39.3 million.
The current 36-man British & Irish Lions squad for 2025, according to the bookies
We found it intriguing to project a smaller squad based on the favored contenders according to bookmakers’ odds as of April19, 2024.
The Lions will play a New Zealand and Australia invitational XV as part of their nine-match tour down under in 2025.
The historic fixture in Adelaide will precede Test matches with the Wallabies in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
A sell-out at the 100,000-capacity Melbourne Cricket Ground would smash records for a Lions Test match.
The series finale will be played in front of more than 80,000 fans in Sydney’s Olympic Park.
The 2025 Lions tour fixtures in full
- Saturday 28 June: v Western Force, Optus Stadium, Perth
- Wednesday 2 July: v Queensland Reds, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
- Saturday 5 July: v New South Wales Waratahs, Allianz Stadium, Sydney
- Wednesday 9 July: v ACT Brumbies, GIO Stadium, Canberra
- Saturday 12 July: v Invitational Australia & NZ XV, Adelaide Oval
- Saturday 19 July: First Test, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
- Tuesday 22 July: v Melbourne Rebels, Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
- Saturday 26 July: Second Test, Melbourne Cricket Ground
- Saturday 2 August: Third Test, Accor Stadium, Sydney
The bolded players in our proposed Lions squad represent the starting XV, according to current odds.
2025 BRITISH & IRISH LIONS SQUAD (36)
BACK-THREE (6)
- Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
- James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
- Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
- Tommy Freeman (England) – 4/9
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England) – 8/11
- Mack Hansen (Ireland) – 2/1
CENTRE (4)
- Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
- Ollie Lawrence (England) – 1/4
- Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) – 2/7
- Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) – 8/11
FLY-HALVES (3)
- George Ford (England) – 1/10
- Marcus Smith (England) – 8/15
- Finn Russell (Scotland) – 8/11