Which player became the first rugby union captain to win two Rugby World Cups?
Answer
Richie McCaw
Richie McCaw became the first rugby union captain to win two Rugby World Cups.
McCaw captained New Zealand to victory in the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups. The All Blacks defeated France 8–7 in the 2011 final and Australia 34–17 in the 2015 final.
His achievement combined leadership with remarkable longevity. McCaw made 148 international appearances for New Zealand and played as an openside flanker. He retired from international rugby after the 2015 tournament.
John Smit captained South Africa to the 2007 title, while Francois Pienaar led the Springboks in 1995. Neither won two World Cups as captain. McCaw’s 2015 team was also the first men’s side to retain the Rugby World Cup.