Robinson's power and pace have made him a crowd favourite

No other player represents so clearly Clive Woodward's strategy of attacking, adventurous rugby. Picked at full-back in the autumn internationals, Robinson was the subject of criticism from Australia's coach Eddie Jones.

Jones questioned whether the man nicknamed Billy Whizz had the tactical nous and defensive skills to play number 15.

Two minutes into the Cook Cup game, Robinson was tested by a probing Matt Burke punt deep into the 22. He took it with ease and went on to put on a sterling display as England won 21-15.

Dedication in training

When union players talk of lessons learnt from the influx of the league boys, it's the example of Robinson which crops up most often.

His dedication in training is legendary. Jonny Wilkinson, after his destruction of Ireland last February, made his feelings about Robinson clear.

"Being made to look silly by Jason in training is a major motivation for me," he said.

Robinson breaks to score against France

"He is a world leader in terms of footwork. He may look at me and think I might be able to kick some goals, but I look at him and think, 'Jeez, that boy can go. I'd like to be like that.'

"When you see someone who is so far ahead, you understand what is achievable and you say to yourself, 'Wow, we can all be so much better.'

"Now I'm constantly taking people on in training, working one-on-one, doing a lot of sprint work.

"Jason is wonderful for the team as well as the sport. I don't think I'll ever be as good as him, but I can try."

Robinson's latest honour adds to a long list of successes in rugby's other code.

A Grand Final winner with Wigan, he also won three Challenge Cup finals medals, one World Club championship medal, four Championship winners' medals and three John Player Trophy awards.

For Wigan and Great Britain combined he scored 184 tries in 302 matches, and still jointly holds the record of having scored tries in six successive Great Britain Test matches.