FORMER LEINSTER OUT-HALF Felipe Contepomi will be one of five new faces inducted into the World Rugby hall of fame next month.
The Argentine — who was Leinster’s record points scorer until Johnny Sexton overtook his 1225 this month — played 116 times for the eastern province and played a major role in Michael Cheika’s revolution before moving to Toulon in 2009.
Contepomi also played a central role in Argentina’s ascent to the top tier of the game and was an ever-present as the Pumas claimed bronze at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, beating hosts France and crushing Ireland along the way.
Alongside Contepomi, the 2017 November entries to the hall of fame are Canada’s Al Charron, England’s Rob Andrew, USA’s Phaidra Knight and French great Fabien Pelous.
“The latest set of inductions includes some real legends,” says World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont, “players who have helped to shape the image of rugby and inspire generations of fans.
“They all have contributed immensely to the enjoyment we have all felt watching top-level rugby over the decades. Each of these five inductees has made a positive impression on the sport, in their own countries and around the world, that will last the test of time.”
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