By Jon Geddes

IT should have been a difficult decision, but three of Australia’s most knowledge rugby doyens didn’t hesitate in naming Mark Ella and Ken Catchpole as the most influential Shute Shield players they have seen.

Former Wallabies Simon Poidevin and Brett Papworth, along with the great scribe Norm Tasker, provided their picks while on a panel at the rousing Rugby News 100th Anniversary Lunch held at the Wentworth Sofitel Ballroom.

Poido and Pappy both opted for the legendary five-eighth Ella, while Tasker’s choice was the champion Wallabies’ halfback Catchpole.

It was fitting that the function, which also launched the outstanding 100 Years of Rugby News coffee table book, recognised those true Australian rugby champions.