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Agustin Pichot named as the most influential figure in world rugby

(Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

World Rugby vice-chairman Agustin Pichot has been voted the most influential figure in the game.

The former Pumas captain, who helped Argentina gain entry into the Rugby Championship and Super Rugby, tops a 50-strong list compiled by Rugby World.

He also played a role in restoring the sport to the Olympics after a 92-year absence and is seeking to revise residency rules and shape the formulation of a global season.

England head coach Eddie Jones comes second after masterminding a Grand Slam and 3-0 series whitewash of Australia in his first season in charge.

New Zealand's World Cup-winning coach Steve Hansen, who has just extended his contract with the All Blacks until 2019, is third.

The top-ranked player in the list is All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter while the highest placed England international is captain Dylan Hartley, who is positioned 28th.

Top 10: 1 - Agustin Pichot, 2 - Eddie Jones, 3 - Steve Hansen, 4 - Bill Beaumont, 5 - Paul Goze, 6 - Dan Carter, 7 - Fikile Mbalula, 8 - Mark McCafferty, 9 - David Pocock, 10 - Nigel Melville.