The best of the best.

Ireland and Wales have had some fierce battles on a rugby pitch over the years. The two Celtic nations always seem to create something special when they take each other on. And there’s been some massive games between the two in recent memory.

Both sides have been pretty successful too. Both have Grand Slams and numerous Six Nations titles under their belts. They’ve also produced some incredible world class players.

But what would a Combined XV from the 21st century (2000-2018) look like? It’s a tough one, but former Ireland hooker Shane Byrne and ex-Wales lock Ian Gough were asked by WalesOnline to do so. And this is what they came up with.

Combined Ireland & Wales XV (2000-2018)

15. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
14. Tommy Bowe (Ireland)
13. Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
12. Jonathan Davies (Wales)
11. Shane Williams (Wales)
10. Johnny Sexton (Ireland)
9. Conor Murray (Ireland)

1. Gethin Jenkins (Wales)
2. Rory Best (Ireland)
3. Adam Jones (Wales)
4. Paul O’Connell (Ireland)
5. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
6. Sean O’Brien (Ireland),
7. Justin Tipuric (Wales)
8. Taulupe Faletau (Wales)

Personally I’d made a few changes myself, but it’s hard to disagree with the majority of their picks.

What do you think? Who are they missing? Sound off in the comments.