Best Six Nations stars of all time revealed with England legend No1 and Red Rose dominating top 10

ENGLAND legend Jonny Wilkinson has been named the best Six Nations player of all time – ahead of Welsh stars Sir Gareth Edwards and JPR Williams.

The World Cup-winning fly half had a glittering career, with a total of 91 caps for England as well as hoovering up trophies at club level.

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Irish captain Brian O’Driscoll placed fourth on the list, with his fearlessness securing his legacy as one of the most exciting players in Six Nations history.

While English rugby fans also championed Martin Johnson, whose ball carrying skills and physical resilience made him a modern icon, landing him in fifth place.

The poll of 2,000 rugby fans also revealed generational divides in player preferences, with older fans opting for legends from the ‘Five Nations’ era, such as Wales’ Edwards.

A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which commissioned the research alongside its Sportsbook team, said: “We’ve been lucky enough to have seen some incredible players down the years.

“As the Five Nations changed to Six, some things haven’t changed at all when it comes to making yourself a hero of the game.

“It’s not even all about winning, it’s about the way they made fans feel, and their contributions to exciting matches.”

The study also found some players Brits believe have been overrated in the Nations tournaments, with Jeremy Guscott topping the list.

But teamwork and the ability to elevate teammates were the attributes players most needed to be in the ‘GOAT’ conversation (36 per cent).

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While 29 per cent wanted to see a consistency in performance across matches, and the same amount opted for technical ability.

Although 23 per cent simply liked a player who exhibited passion and pride in representing their nation.

Nearly a fifth (18 per cent) have been so moved by a Five or Six Nations player they’d consider naming a child after them – if they hadn’t already done so.

Ireland are the favourites to take home the win from this year’s tournament, with 27 per cent believing they’ll go all the way – compared to 25 per cent opting for England.

Just one per cent think Italy have what it takes to win, with 10 per cent also believing they shouldn’t even remain in the event.

In fact, 21 per cent of rugby fans, polled via OnePoll, would like to see the Six Nations expanded to include more teams.

Lottoland’s spokesperson added: “Rugby fans are as passionate off the pitch as the players are on it, and the Six Nations always sparks lively debates about the legends of the game.

“From record-breaking moments to unforgettable performances, every fan has their favourites—and that’s what makes these conversations so engaging.

“The beauty of rugby is that every generation has its icons, and the Six Nations is the stage where many of them shine.”