At the end of a year dominated by South Africa and Toulouse, it is a suitable time to play fantasy rugby by selecting a composite global line-up.
It is invariably a divisive process, as fans of certain countries and clubs are outraged that their favourites are not picked.
But part of the point is that the best individuals are not always in the best teams – look at how Sergio Parisse was feted and honoured throughout his career while carrying a struggling Italy side on his shoulders.
In 2024, several Springboks miss the cut for this column’s best side, because Rassie Erasmus engaged in (canny) squad rotation, in order to build depth in all areas.
And let’s just be clear now; the lack of a single England player is no injustice, given that Steve Borthwick’s national team lost seven of the 12 Tests that they played.
Many judging panels opt to include large contingents from the top teams, but this column has gone for a more…
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