Two of our team members pick their No 3 for the SARugbymag.co.za Fans' World XV.
Jon Cardinelli
OWEN FRANKS
Franks is first and foremost a top scrummager, and has been the best scrummaging tighthead in the world for some time. His potency at this set piece has been somewhat diluted since All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has introduced the physically inadequate hooker Dane Coles to the front row, and yet Franks has still managed to hold up his side of the scrum in many contests despite the lack of support from the man on his left.
What sets Franks apart from other tightheads in world rugby is his mobility and ball skills. The Crusaders and All Blacks play a similar high-tempo brand of rugby because their forwards boast the necessary skills to do so, even those in the front row. Franks is both the traditional and modern No 3 in that he can offer the All Blacks both grunt and mobility according to what's required in a game situation.
Simon Borchardt
ADAM JONES
Jones is a key member of the Welsh pack, providing a rock-solid platform at scrum time, along with loosehead prop Gethin Jenkins. He also played a big role for the Lions against the Wallabies last year, starting all three Tests in the No 3 jersey.
Wales suffered several injury setbacks towards the end of last year, but Jones, who damaged a calf muscle against the Boks, was missed the most against Argentina, Tonga and Australia.
The 32-year-old has plenty of experience, with 94 Test caps (including five for the Lions) and has played in three World Cups and been involved in three Grand Slam triumphs.
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International Rugby Players' Association's 2013 World XV
International Rugby Players' Association's 2013 Fans' World XV
Photo: Warren Little/AFP Photo/Getty Images
