Rocky Elsom surged to stardom in Europe when he inspired Irish club Leinster to the 2009 Heineken Cup title, and that meteoric rise was topped off with the rugged flanker being named captain of Wallabies.
Leinster and Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll describes Elsom as the greatest player he has ever played with, and it's that respect coach Robbie Deans will be hoping continues as Elsom leads the Wallabies into Rugby World Cup 2011.
The Super14 was rocked by the death of popular Brumbies player Shawn Mackay in a tragic accident in Durban, an event that touched many.
There was very little joy for the Wallabies, but they did record a memorable victory over reigning world champions South Africa, who went on to claim the Tri-Nations title against the All Blacks in Hamilton courtesy of three Francois Steyn penalty goals from over 50 metres out.
