He was born with athletic ability, the rest came through very hard work. This is by his own admission and those who know him best, such as his father who got him kicking balls through car tyres hung in the garden for hours on end as a kid. Thought you knew all about him?
The last sentence, well obviously, hence why we need the grafters. The first sentence, to be able to make it into the top level by hard work and endeavour is very much to be admired.
You don't get into any test side by having 'very little skill', and if you don't admire those who aren't the most naturally gifted for trying to be the best they can by effort and work then you really are one tough crowd. I hope you're not so hard on yourself.