Rugby is a sport divided into two primary codes: Rugby Union and Rugby League.
While both share common origins, they have evolved into distinct sports with different rules, playing styles, and competitive structures. Despite these differences, some exceptional athletes have successfully transitioned between the two, leaving a lasting impact on both codes. Thanks to research from Bet442, we look at the best dual-code rugby players of all time, analysing their achievements, influence, and versatility.
Before diving into the top dual-code players, it is crucial to understand the primary differences between the two formats:
Rugby Union features 15 players per side, while Rugby League has 13. Furthermore, Rugby League requires a ‘play-the-ball’ restart after a tackle, while Rugby Union contests possession via rucks.
In Rugby League, there are six tackles before possession is handed over, whereas Rugby Union allows unlimited phases until a breakdown occurs.
Also, Rugby Union has heavily contested scrums and lineouts, whereas Rugby League has simplified scrums and no lineouts.
Despite these distinctions, some players have managed to excel in both codes, showcasing remarkable adaptability and skill.
Jason Robinson is arguably one of the most successful dual-code players. He started his career in Rugby League with Wigan Warriors, winning multiple titles, before switching to Rugby Union. As a Union player, he became a key figure for England, helping them win the 2003 Rugby World Cup. His blistering pace, agility, and footwork made him a devastating runner in both formats.
Sonny Bill Williams is a global rugby superstar who achieved success in both codes. He won NRL Premierships with the Canterbury Bulldogs and Sydney Roosters and became a two-time Rugby Union World Cup winner with New Zealand. His offloading skills, powerful running, and defensive prowess made him a standout in both formats.
Jonathan Davies was a Welsh Rugby Union star before making a high-profile switch to Rugby League, where he excelled with Widnes and Warrington. He later returned to Union and continued his success. His vision, kicking ability, and game intelligence made him one of the finest dual-code players.
Israel Folau is one of the most naturally gifted athletes to transition between the two codes. He started in Rugby League, playing for the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos before switching to Rugby Union, where he became one of Australia’s top try-scorers. His aerial ability, speed, and finishing made him a threat in both sports.
Brad Thorn is unique in that he won major titles in both Rugby League and Rugby Union. He played for the Brisbane Broncos, winning NRL championships, before transitioning to Rugby Union, where he won Super Rugby titles and was part of New Zealand’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad. His physicality and work ethic were key assets in both codes.
A prolific try-scorer, Martin Offiah made a name for himself in Rugby League with Wigan, where he became one of the most feared wingers of all time. Though his Rugby Union career was brief, his attacking brilliance and pace make him one of the best dual-code players.
Iestyn Harris was a Rugby League star with Leeds Rhinos before switching to Rugby Union, where he played for Wales and Cardiff Blues. While he had mixed success in Union, he remains one of the most talented players to transition between the two codes.
Playing at the highest level in both Rugby League and Rugby Union is a remarkable achievement that requires immense adaptability, skill, and determination. The players mentioned above have left a significant impact on both formats, proving their class and versatility. Whether it’s Jason Robinson’s speed, Sonny Bill Williams’ offloads, or Brad Thorn’s toughness, these athletes have set the standard for what it means to be a great dual-code rugby player.
