My XV of 2006 reflects a sobering reality for northern hemisphere rugby: there is no Englishman there, not one Welsh-man, not one Scot and only one French-man. But as we enter World Cup year the All Blacks are setting the standard, Ireland and Argentina leading the rest of the world, and the rest have a good deal of catching up to do.
I was discussing this recently with Will Greenwood, and he pointed out that when England went into their World Cup season four years ago, there was not a single player in any position that they would have swapped for any other in the world. That is how the All Blacks are now and that is why they make up the bulk of my XV.
Loosehead prop Rodrigo Roncero Argentina
Not seen this autumn because he was injured, but had a big summer and is a fine example of the modern prop. Ten years ago all the big men had to do was scrum down; now they have to run 5km during a match and put in 10 tackles.
Hooker Raphael Ibanez France
I have to put one Frenchman in, and Raph is here for the way he picked up France by the scruff of its collective neck this autumn, and the way he has relaunched his career with Wasps.
Tighthead prop Carl Hayman New Zealand
He doesn't seem the prototype of a prop: he's very tall and doesn't have much of a gut, but he's mobile and as for his scrummaging, think of the way France went backwards in Lyon.
Lock Chris Jack New Zealand
One of the most consistent of a very good All Blacks team, and when you see him running faster than many backs, it makes you very, very afraid.
Lock Paul O'Connell Ireland
A huge season, with a European title for Munster and a major role in Ireland's rise up the rankings. The speed of a back-row forward on those long legs - and, oh, does it hurt when he tackles you.
Blindside flanker Jerry Collins New Zealand
His medicinal studies are progressing well: the best anaesthetist in the world. If you brush him up the wrong way, you get stung.
Openside flanker Ritchie McCaw
New Zealand
Apart from his almost peerless technical skills, what impresses is his consistency: never seems to have a drop in form, rarely injured. A tribute to the system under which he plays.
No8 Rodney So'oialo New Zealand
There are some positions at present where it is simply impossible to look outside the All Blacks. I've never seen a New Zealand No8 in trouble this season, but that's inevitable in a pack that only goes forward.
Scrum-half Matt Giteau Australia
For the way he has adapted to the position since moving from centre, a remarkable transition. Not there yet, and will have to reckon with George Gregan for the World Cup, but he can cover every position in the back-line.
Fly-half Daniel Carter New Zealand
Watching him you feel fly-half is an easy position to play; then you get on the field and remember how hard it is.
Left-wing Sitiveni Sivivatu
New Zealand
Has added New Zealand discipline to Fijian flair to become a nightmare for any defence.
Inside-centre Brian O'Driscoll Ireland
In France we don't dwell on the distinct-ion between No12 and 13 so I'd put O'Driscoll in for his play-making ability, the way he destabilises defences.
Outside-centre Lote Tuquiri Australia
I'd mention Ma'a Nonu here as well; Tuquiri has the speed, Nonu the power but Tuquiri represents the perfect conversion from rugby league to union.
Right-wing Rupeni Caucaunibuca Fiji
Is completely outside the norms of rugby today, and has put in huge performances for Agen and Fiji. On an athletic level has perhaps the biggest potential in the game, but remains his own man, the only player who could go Awol for months then slot back in.
Full-back Juan-Martin Hernandez Argentina
With an honourable mention for Chris Latham. These are two No15s with totally different styles: Latham has had a great year, making a big contribution to putting Australia back on the rails, but Hernandez represents a nation which has arrived at the top of world rugby.
Coaching team Graham Henry, Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen New Zealand
A tribute to their federation's foresight in luring them back to the New Zealand.
