Once were warriors

They graced the rugby fields of the world for years with power, pace and panache.

Now a magnificent seven have played in their last Rugby World Cup. No more will the tournament see the strength of Victor Matfield and Nathan Sharpe, the flair of Shane Williams, the imagination of Brian O'Driscoll, the doggedness of Mario Ledesma, the talent of Mils Muliaina and Nicky Little.

These titans of the sport provided supporters the world over with many magical moments during their memorable RWC careers and they will surely be missed.

But they would be the first to admit that more players like themselves will come along and eventually carve their names into the hearts and minds of rugby fans.

O'Driscoll won 117 caps for Ireland, South Africa's Matfield 110, Wallaby Sharpe 100, All Black Muliaina 100, Wales's Williams 86, Argentine Ledesma 84 and Fiji's Little 71.

Here are some parting shots of the seven lighting up RWC 2011.

Leaning tower: Giant South Africa second row Victor Matfield braces himself for a challenge from Wallaby Adam Ashley-Cooper


Strife of Brian: Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll is caught in a pincer movement by Australian pair Kurtley Beale and Ben McCalman


The Sharpe end: Second row Nathan Sharpe of the Wallabies runs out to win his 100th cap and finish his Rugby World Cup career in the Bronze Final against Wales


Through the Mils: Jebb Sinclair of Canada tries but fails to prevent All Black full back Mils Muliaina breaking clear


Enter the Dragon: Shane Williams dives over to score a try to put Wales into the lead against the Wallabies in the Bronze Final but the advantage was only temporary


Super Mario: Argentina's Mario Ledesma played his heart out and tackles Jerome Kaino in his final Rugby World Cup match


Little Little and large Little: Fiji's Nicky Little makes it a family affair after bidding farewell to the RWC in the Pool D match against Wales