VIDEO: SA teams have 'hit the jackpot' says All Black legend

SPOTLIGHT: All Black legend Ma’a Nonu believes Super Rugby has fallen further behind the pack when it comes to the toughest leagues in the world.

During a discussion on the Kick Offs and Kick Ons podcast, Nonu ranked the French Top 14 as the toughest in the world with the Premiership in England and the United Rugby Championship not far behind.

The All Black believes South Africa’s top franchises have improved considerably since they made the move to Europe.

“I think the Top 14 edges Super Rugby by two notches,” said Nonu.

“You’ve got the best players in the world playing in that competition.

“I haven’t said the Premiership or the URC because I haven’t played there, but I would say they come second and third, or equal second.

“Super Rugby is still good footy. You’ve got the Australians and the Kiwis playing, but they haven’t got the exposure of playing against all the other players from other countries.

“South Africa have hit the jackpot. South Africa left because of SANZAAR, but their teams have actually gotten better and better.

“The Stormers won the [URC] competition in the first year.

“Super Rugby is maybe suffering and I don’t know how long it is going to be around. The level is still there, but the Top 14 is ahead.”