Dream Team: Charlie Sharples – Gloucester and England wing

1. Soane Tonga’uhia – He was just awesome in 2011 when Northampton reached the Heineken Cup final. Huge in the scrum but carries the ball and tackles like a back row.
2. Schalk Brits – Skilful enough to play in the centres but somehow found his way to the front row. Been awesome at Saracens for years, running, passing and even kicking.
3. Carl Hayman – Played against him when he was at Newcastle and he was an absolute unit. Having a world class tighthead is key to win good scrum ball.
4. Courtney Lawes – I remember him looking like a lanky basketball player at an England U18s camp. We played two Junior World Cups together and he’s since filled out to become a very big and athletic lock.
5. Paul O’Connell – He has been a great stalwart for Munster. The backs would see a lot of good ball with him running the lineout.
6. Pete Buxton – One of those guys you want in your team even if it means having more chance to get injured by him. He put his body on the line for the shirt. Did all the unseen nasty work brilliantly.
7. Andy Hazell – Another Gloucester legend in this team. Typified what playing for Gloucester meant over the years.
8. Gareth Delve – Great player who has been very unlucky with injuries. Seems to have found a new lease of life in Australia with the Rebels. The nicest guy off the piece but hard as nails on it.
9. Danny Care – Great attacking threat from the base of the ruck with the kicking game to match.
10. Jonny Wilkinson – I earned my first England cap next to him. Will go down as one of the greatest players ever. Very approachable despite his status.
11. Shane Williams – The perfect winger to play outside my big and physical midfield. His amazing feet and finishing abilities add magic to any back line.
12. Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu – One of the most talented players I’ve played with. He’s got it all in attack but also loves to bump people off with some huge hits.
13. Mike Tindall – As my former teammate and coach he’d be mad if I didn’t pick him. A rock in midfield, sound in defence and always going forward in attack. He put his nose on the line for the shirt.
14. James Simpson-Daniel – A Gloucester legend. Probably one of the best attacking players in the Premiership for the last decade. Should have had 50 Test caps but England’s loss was Gloucester’s gain.
15. Olly Morgan – A rock at the back and the best full-back under high-ball. Very brave in defence and intelligent too. Morgs put me away for a few tries.