Los 5 mejores del 2010 en el mundo del Rugby

To coincide with our countdown of Rugby's Most Influential People, we thought we would offer up some additional rankings in the form of a series of 'Top 5s'.

Next up is our pick of rugby's most valuable talents - not necessarily the best players in the world. With the Rugby World Cup looming we think these guys are pivotal to their side's chances. They may not all be potential World Cup winners but must perform if their teams are to reach their potential.

1. Richie McCaw (New Zealand) - The talismanic All Blacks captain is so often the driving force behind his side and is key to their hopes of reclaiming the sport's biggest prize on home soil. His superb all round game is complimented by his record-breaking leadership prowess. Without him the All Blacks are just not the same.

2. Dan Carter (New Zealand) - Arguably equally as valuable to the All Blacks as his skipper, Carter appears to be playing a different game to the rest of the world at times such is his ability to find time and space when others struggle for composure. His playmaking ability is the key to unleashing New Zealand's formidable back division.

3. James Hook (Wales) - The hugely-talented Hook is a potent game-breaking threat for Wales and will be central to their Six Nations and World Cup hopes. An undoubted world-class talent, the 25-year-old's versatility has worked against him at times but such is his ability to conjure a piece of magic you can rest assured he will play a central role no matter his position.

4. David Pocock (Australia) - Pocock's star continues to rise with 2011 set to provide yet further evidence that the Wallabies' flanker is destined for greatness. His ability to dominate all comers at the breakdown - including even McCaw - makes him an inspirational presence for Australia.

5. Jamie Heaslip (Ireland) - The strong-running No.8 is another world-class talent and an inspirational figure for province and country. A rock in defence, it is perhaps his industry and hunger for the ball in attack that makes him an extra special talent. His team-mate Brian O'Driscoll may have the magic touch but Heaslip will happily lead the line in defence and attack.

Do you agree with our selection? Be sure to let us know...