Speed is one of the most exciting and essential attributes in rugby. Whether it’s a winger racing down the touchline or a fullback chasing down an opponent, fast players bring a dynamic element to the game. Over the years, many players have dazzled fans with their exceptional pace. This article delves into some of the fastest rugby players of all time, highlighting their top speeds, career achievements, and the impact of their speed on the game.
Carlin Isles – The Rugby Sevens Speedster
Top Speed: 37.58 km/h (23.36 mph)
Carlin Isles, often dubbed the “fastest man in rugby,” has made a name for himself in rugby sevens. A former track and field athlete, Isles brought his blistering speed to the sport and became a highlight reel favorite.
- Career Highlights: Isles has scored over 200 tries in the World Rugby Sevens Series, showcasing his ability to turn on the afterburners and leave defenders in his wake.
- Impact: His top-end speed allows him to exploit even the smallest defensive gaps, making him one of the most feared attackers in the sevens format.
Bryan Habana – The Springbok Sensation
Top Speed: 36.22 km/h (22.5 mph)
Bryan Habana is widely regarded as one of the greatest wingers in rugby history. Known for his lethal combination of speed and skill, Habana consistently terrorized defenses throughout his illustrious career.
- Career Highlights: Habana scored 67 tries in 124 appearances for South Africa, including eight tries during the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where the Springboks emerged as champions.
- Impact: His speed allowed him to chase down opponents and turn defense into attack, epitomized by his famous try-saving tackle on New Zealand’s Joe Rokocoko in 2005.
Cheslin Kolbe – The Elusive Speedster
Top Speed: 35.94 km/h (22.33 mph)
Cheslin Kolbe’s speed and agility make him one of the most electrifying players in modern rugby. Despite his relatively small stature, Kolbe’s acceleration and footwork allow him to evade defenders effortlessly.
- Career Highlights: Kolbe played a pivotal role in South Africa’s 2019 Rugby World Cup triumph, scoring a sensational try in the final against England.
- Impact: His ability to change direction at full speed makes him a nightmare for defenders, and his speed has consistently turned tight games in his team’s favor.
Jonah Lomu – The Powerhouse with Pace
Top Speed: 34.65 km/h (21.53 mph)
Jonah Lomu revolutionized rugby with his rare combination of size, strength, and speed. At 6’4” and 119 kg, Lomu’s ability to outrun and overpower opponents was unmatched.
- Career Highlights: Lomu scored 37 tries in 63 appearances for the All Blacks and is best remembered for his devastating performances in the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
- Impact: His speed allowed him to exploit mismatches against slower or smaller defenders, making him one of the most iconic figures in rugby history.
Christian Wade – The Try-Scoring Machine
Top Speed: 36.55 km/h (22.71 mph)
Christian Wade was one of the most prolific try-scorers in English rugby before making the switch to American football. His speed and finishing ability made him a standout player for Wasps in the Premiership.
- Career Highlights: Wade scored 82 tries in 165 appearances for Wasps, making him one of the top try-scorers in the league’s history.
- Impact: His speed allowed him to exploit gaps in defensive lines, often resulting in long-range tries that left fans in awe.
Tonderai Chavhanga – Lightning Quick
Top Speed: 36.7 km/h (22.8 mph)
Tonderai Chavhanga burst onto the international scene with his record-breaking six-try debut for the Springboks against Uruguay in 2005. His speed was his greatest asset, enabling him to outpace defenders with ease.
- Career Highlights: Chavhanga’s speed made him a valuable asset in both Super Rugby and international rugby, where he consistently left defenders trailing.
- Impact: His pace often stretched opposition defenses, creating opportunities for his teammates.
Takudzwa Ngwenya – The American Flyer
Top Speed: 36.11 km/h (22.44 mph)
Takudzwa Ngwenya shot to fame during the 2007 Rugby World Cup when he famously outpaced Bryan Habana to score a stunning try for the USA against South Africa.
- Career Highlights: Ngwenya earned 36 caps for the USA and scored 15 international tries, cementing his reputation as one of the fastest players in the game.
- Impact: His ability to outrun even the quickest defenders made him a constant threat on the wing.
Perry Baker – Sevens Superstar
Top Speed: 37 km/h (22.99 mph)
Perry Baker is another American speedster who has lit up the World Rugby Sevens Series with his breathtaking pace. A former American football player, Baker transitioned to rugby and quickly became one of the sport’s top stars.
- Career Highlights: Baker has won multiple World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year awards and is known for his spectacular solo tries.
- Impact: His speed makes him almost impossible to catch in open play, and his ability to finish from long distances is unmatched.
Seabelo Senatla – The South African Rocket
Top Speed: 36.4 km/h (22.62 mph)
Seabelo Senatla’s pace has made him one of the top try-scorers in the history of the World Rugby Sevens Series. His speed and agility have been crucial to South Africa’s success in the format.
- Career Highlights: Senatla has scored over 200 tries in the sevens circuit and has also made a successful transition to 15-a-side rugby.
- Impact: His ability to accelerate past defenders and finish in tight spaces has made him a key player for the Blitzboks and his domestic teams.
Conclusion
The fastest rugby players of all time have brought an exhilarating dimension to the game, using their speed to create unforgettable moments. From Carlin Isles in sevens to Bryan Habana and Jonah Lomu in 15s, these players have captivated fans and left an indelible mark on rugby history. Their speed not only dazzles spectators but also underscores the importance of pace in modern rugby. As new generations of players continue to emerge, the pursuit of speed will remain a cornerstone of the sport.