Famous New Zealander Rugby Players

Richie McCaw is a legendary retired New Zealand rugby union player who captained the All Blacks in 110 out of his 148 test matches. He is a two-time Rugby World Cup winner and has been named World Rugby Player of the Year three times. McCaw holds the record for most capped player in rugby union history with 148 caps. He played for the Crusaders and Canterbury teams, winning numerous titles. McCaw is also known for his leadership, having led the All Blacks to consecutive Rugby World Cup titles in 2011 and 2015.

Kalyn Ponga is a prominent Australian rugby league player known for his skills as a fullback and captain of the Newcastle Knights in the NRL. He has also played for the North Queensland Cowboys in the past. Ponga has represented both New Zealand Māori and Queensland in the State of Origin series, showcasing his talent at the representative level. Additionally, he has demonstrated versatility by playing in different positions such as five-eighth and wing, making him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.

Daniel Carter is a retired New Zealand rugby union player known for his successful career with the Crusaders in Super Rugby and the All Blacks national team. He holds the record for the highest point scorer in test match rugby and is widely regarded as one of the greatest first five-eighths in the history of the sport. Carter has been honored as the International Rugby Board Player of the Year multiple times. He has achieved success at both the Rugby World Cup and Super Rugby levels, winning multiple titles with both teams.

Kieran Read is a retired New Zealand rugby union player known for his career with the All Blacks. He played as a number 8 and captained the national team, holding the record for the fourth-most test caps in All Blacks history. Read was a key player in New Zealand's World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. He also excelled in club rugby, representing the Crusaders in Super Rugby and Canterbury and Counties Manukau in the Mitre 10 Cup, before finishing his career with Toyota Verblitz in Japan.

Beauden Barrett is a highly accomplished professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He plays as a Fly half for the Japan Rugby League One club Toyota Verblitz and represents the New Zealand national team. Barrett has achieved significant recognition in the sport, winning the World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2016 and 2017, and being nominated in 2018. He has also been honored with the Sportsperson of the Year Award multiple times. Barrett's career has seen success at both the international and domestic levels, with impressive records and achievements to his name.

Sonny Bill Williams is a versatile athlete who has excelled in rugby league, rugby union, and boxing. He has represented New Zealand in both rugby codes and achieved success at the highest levels, winning the Rugby World Cup twice with the All Blacks. In rugby league, he earned accolades such as the RLIF Awards for Rookie of the Year and International Player of the Year. Additionally, he has competed as a professional boxer, holding titles such as the NZPBA Heavyweight Champion and WBA International Heavyweight Champion.

Tana Umaga is a former New Zealand rugby union player and coach. He played for the Hurricanes and the All Blacks, achieving success as a captain and player. After retiring from international rugby, he briefly played and coached in France before returning to New Zealand to coach and play for Counties Manukau and the Waikato Chiefs. Throughout his career, Umaga demonstrated leadership both on and off the field, leaving a lasting impact on the rugby world.

Ardie Savea is a prominent New Zealand rugby union player known for his versatility as a flanker or number 8. He has represented Wellington in the Bunnings NPC and the Hurricanes in Super Rugby. Savea has also been a key player for the New Zealand All Blacks at the international level, participating in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups. His leadership skills have been evident through his captaincy of Wellington and his previous stints with the Barbarians, New Zealand U20's team, and the national rugby sevens team.

Jerry Collins was a professional rugby union player known for his prowess as a flanker and number eight. He played for the New Zealand national team, earning 48 caps, and also represented various clubs including Hurricanes in New Zealand, Toulon, and Narbonne in the Rugby Pro D2, Ospreys in Wales, and Yamaha Júbilo in Japan. Collins was renowned for his exceptional tackling skills and was considered one of the toughest and most formidable players in the sport before his tragic passing in a car accident in southern France in June 2015.

Benjamin Robert Smith is a retired New Zealand rugby union player who has had a successful professional career playing for various teams in different leagues. He made his international debut in 2009 and went on to play 84 tests for New Zealand, contributing to the team's victory in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Known for his versatility, Smith played primarily as an outside back but also showcased his skills in the center and halfback positions. He holds the international record for winning 14 games in a season and achieved a rare perfect season in 2013 by playing every match.

Rieko Ioane is a highly accomplished professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He plays as a wing or centre for the Blues in Super Rugby and the New Zealand national team. Ioane began his career in his youth, representing New Zealand in the Sevens World Series and excelling in secondary school rugby. He made his professional debut for Auckland at a young age and quickly progressed to the Blues squad. Ioane has earned numerous accolades for his exceptional performance, including being named World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year.

Colin Meads was a legendary New Zealand rugby union player who played 55 test matches for the All Blacks from 1957 to 1971. Known for his dominant presence in the lock forward position, he earned the nickname 'Pinetree' for his physicality on the field. Meads is regarded as one of the greatest players in rugby history and was honored as the Player of the Century at the NZRFU Awards in 1999. His impressive career and contributions to the sport have solidified his iconic status within New Zealand rugby.

TJ Perenara is a distinguished New Zealand rugby union player, excelling as a Halfback and First Five-Eighth for Wellington in the Bunnings NPC, the Hurricanes in Super Rugby, and the All Blacks national team. With an impressive international career, he debuted for New Zealand in 2014 and has participated in major events like the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups. Perenara's exceptional skills and dedication have earned him the title of the most capped Hurricane player of all time, reflecting his significant contributions to the sport.

Samuel Jordan Cane is a highly accomplished professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He currently plays as a flanker for the Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan Rugby League One and previously served as the captain of the New Zealand national team. Cane made his international debut in 2012 and took over as the All Blacks' captain in 2020. Throughout his career, he has represented various teams including King Country, Bay of Plenty, and the Chiefs in different rugby championships, demonstrating his exceptional skill and leadership on the field.

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is a versatile New Zealand dual-code rugby international footballer known for his exceptional skills and leadership on the field. He currently plays as a centre for the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League, where he previously excelled as a fullback and won the prestigious Dally M Medal in 2018. Tuivasa-Sheck has also showcased his talent as a winger for the Sydney Roosters, securing a premiership in 2013, and as a centre for the Blues in the Super Rugby competition.

Bradley Carnegie Thorn is a versatile sports figure who has excelled in both rugby league and rugby union. As a player, he represented both Australia and New Zealand, earning numerous caps and accolades. Thorn transitioned to rugby union in 2001 and enjoyed a successful career, winning a World Cup, a Super Rugby title, and the Heineken Cup. He holds the world record for being the oldest player to play in and win a World Cup final. Thorn now coaches the Queensland Reds and has become one of the longest-serving coaches in their history.

Richie Mo'unga is a highly skilled professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He currently plays as a first five-eighth for the Japan Rugby League One club Toshiba Brave Lupus and represents the New Zealand national team. Mo'unga's exceptional abilities on the field have earned him recognition as a key player in both his club and national sides. Known for his strategic plays and precise kicking, he continues to make significant contributions to the sport of rugby at the highest level.

Julian Savea is a highly accomplished professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He has played for various teams including Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby, Toulon in the Top 14, and Hurricanes in the Super Rugby. Savea has also represented New Zealand at both sevens and under-20 levels. Known for his exceptional try-scoring abilities, Savea has been a key player in New Zealand's success, including winning the 2015 Rugby World Cup. He has received prestigious awards such as World Rugby's Try of the Year in 2015 and has been nominated for Player of the Year multiple times.

Ben Te'o is a versatile former professional rugby union and rugby league player who made a name for himself with teams like the Brisbane Broncos, Wests Tigers, and South Sydney Rabbitohs in the NRL. He achieved success by winning the 2014 NRL Grand Final with the Rabbitohs. Te'o also represented Queensland in the State of Origin series and played for Samoa at the international level. Transitioning to rugby union, he played for England and the British & Irish Lions as a centre from 2014 to 2020.

Graham Henry is a highly accomplished rugby union coach with a successful career spanning several decades. He has coached various teams including Auckland, Auckland Blues, Wales, the British & Irish Lions, and notably, the New Zealand national team, the All Blacks. Henry led the All Blacks to victory in the 2011 Rugby World Cup, earning praise for his coaching prowess. He has also worked as an advisor and assistant coach for the Argentina national team, showcasing his expertise and dedication to the sport.

Charles Piutau is a professional rugby union player known for his versatility as a fullback. He has represented both New Zealand and Tonga at different levels of the sport. With 17 senior caps for New Zealand and 5 caps for Tonga, he has showcased his skills on the international stage. Currently playing for the Shizuoka Blue Revs in the Japan Rugby League One, Piutau continues to make a significant impact with his athleticism and experience in the game.

Brodie Retallick is a highly accomplished New Zealand rugby union player known for his exceptional skills as a lock. With an impressive professional career spanning from playing for the Chiefs in Super Rugby to representing New Zealand internationally, Retallick has accumulated over 100 test caps. He played a pivotal role in the 2015 Rugby World Cup victory and was recognized with the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2014. Retallick is often compared to the legendary Sir Colin Meads for his outstanding performances on the field.

Keven Mealamu is a former New Zealand rugby union player known for his impressive career at hooker for the Blues in Super Rugby, Auckland in the National Provincial Championship, and the New Zealand national team. He was a key player in the Blues' 2003 Super 12 title win and played a significant role in the All Blacks' victories at the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups. Mealamu also achieved the milestone of 100 test appearances and is one of only 21 players to have won the Rugby World Cup multiple times.

Doug Howlett is a retired New Zealand professional rugby union player known for his skills as a wing and fullback. He played for Auckland and various Super Rugby teams including the Highlanders, Hurricanes, and Blues. Howlett concluded his career with Munster in Ireland. With 49 tries in 62 tests, he ranks as the seventh-highest try scorer in rugby union history and holds the title of top try scorer for New Zealand.

Christian Cullen is a retired New Zealand rugby union player who played primarily as a fullback for the All Blacks, Hurricanes in the Super 12, and various provincial teams. Known as the Paekakariki Express, he was recognized for his exceptional running abilities. Cullen scored 46 tries in 58 tests, ranking as the 9th highest try-scorer in international rugby. He showcased his talent and skill throughout his professional career, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Akira Ioane is a prominent New Zealand rugby union player known for his versatility as a blindside flanker and number 8. He has represented various teams at different levels, including Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup, the Blues in Super Rugby, and the All Blacks at the international level. Ioane's skills and athleticism have also seen him excel in Sevens rugby and with the Māori All Blacks. His impressive career highlights his talent and dedication to the sport at multiple levels.

Stephen Donald is a prominent New Zealand rugby union player currently competing for the NEC Green Rockets in the Japanese Top League. Known as 'Beaver', he has earned 24 international caps for the New Zealand national team. Donald's expertise lies in the first five-eighth and centre positions, showcasing his versatility on the field. He achieved widespread recognition for his decisive performance, notably kicking the winning penalty during the intense 2011 Rugby World Cup final, solidifying his reputation as a clutch player under pressure.

Caleb Clarke is a prominent New Zealand professional rugby union player known for his exceptional skills as a wing. He currently plays for Super Rugby club Blues and represents the New Zealand national team, showcasing his talent on the field at the highest level of competition. With impressive speed, agility, and strength, Clarke has become a key player for both his club and country, consistently delivering outstanding performances that have earned him recognition and respect in the rugby world.

Alexander James Williams is a retired professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He primarily played as a lock for the Blues in Super Rugby and the New Zealand national team. Williams also had stints with Auckland, Tasman, and Nottingham in England's RFU Championship. He represented the All Blacks between 2002 and 2012, participating in multiple Rugby World Cups. Recognized for his skills, he was selected as one of the five players of the year by NZ Rugby Almanack in 2005. Williams later played in France for Toulon and Racing 92.

Ben Tameifuna is a professional rugby union player known for his role as a prop at Top 14 club Bordeaux Bègles. Hailing from New Zealand, he competes at the international level for Tonga by meeting ancestry eligibility requirements. With a robust presence on the field, Tameifuna showcases his skills and strength in the scrums, contributing to his team's performance and success. His dedication to the sport and ability to excel in a competitive environment have solidified his reputation as a talented and valued player in the rugby community.

Piri Weepu had a successful rugby career, primarily as a half-back for various teams in New Zealand and abroad. He represented the All Blacks from 2004 to 2013, earning national honors early in his career. Weepu played for the Hurricanes and Blues in Super Rugby, as well as Wellington and Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup. He also had stints with clubs in Europe before announcing his retirement in 2017. Known for his versatility, Weepu occasionally played as a first five-eighth during his career.

Sean Fitzpatrick is a renowned former New Zealand rugby union player who achieved success with the Auckland Blues, winning the first two Super 12 titles in 1996 and 1997. He earned 92 international caps playing for the New Zealand national team, the All Blacks, and was a key player in their victory at the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. Fitzpatrick captained the All Blacks from 1992 to 1997, leading the team to notable victories, including against the British Lions and in South Africa.

Ngani Laumape is a professional rugby player from New Zealand. He has experience playing both rugby union and rugby league at top levels. Laumape currently plays as a centre for the Kobelco Kobe Steelers. He has previously represented the Hurricanes in Super Rugby and the New Zealand Warriors in the National Rugby League. Known for his powerful running and strong defensive skills, Laumape has established himself as a key player in both codes of the sport, showcasing his versatility and talent on the field.

Conrad Smith is a former New Zealand rugby union player and coach, known for his role as a centre. He captained the Hurricanes in Super Rugby and represented New Zealand from 2004 to 2015, winning the Rugby World Cup in 2011 and 2015. After retiring from international rugby, he played for Pau in France before transitioning into coaching. He worked as a defence coach and High Performance Manager for Pau, then moved to a role with International Rugby Players in Dublin before returning to New Zealand in 2021.

Joe Rokocoko is a former professional rugby union player from New Zealand known for his position as a wing. He played for notable teams such as the Blues and Auckland in New Zealand, as well as Bayonne and Racing 92 in France. Rokocoko achieved significant success during his career, earning 68 caps for the New Zealand national team and scoring an impressive 46 tries. He remains a prominent figure in New Zealand rugby history, holding the title of joint-second-top try scorer for the national team.

Luke McAlister is a New Zealand rugby union footballer who has had a successful professional career playing at fly-half and centre positions. He has played for various teams including North Harbour, the Blues, Sale Sharks, Stade Toulousain, and Toulon. McAlister has represented New Zealand internationally as part of the All Blacks squad, contributing to the team's performance in the Rugby World Cup. Known for his skills on the field, McAlister has played a key role in his teams' successes in both domestic and international competitions.

Andrew Mehrtens is a former New Zealand rugby union player known for his skills as a first five-eighth. He began his professional career with Canterbury in 1993 before earning a spot on the All Blacks in 1995. Mehrtens later played for clubs in England and France, helping them secure promotions to their respective top leagues. Notable stints include his time with Harlequins in England, where he played a key role in their return to the Premiership, and with Toulon and Racing Métro in France, where he continued to achieve success.

Sam Whitelock is a former prominent New Zealand rugby union player known for his exceptional career achievements. He has an impressive record of over 100 tests for the New Zealand national team and holds the distinction of being the youngest player to reach this milestone. Whitelock was recognized as the New Zealand Rugby Player of the Year in 2017 and played a crucial role in the team's Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. He formed a formidable locking partnership with Brodie Retallick, contributing significantly to the team's success. Whitelock retired after captaining the Barbarians side in June 2024.

Lima Sopoaga is a professional rugby union player known for his role as a fly-half for Japan Rugby League One club Shimizu Blue Sharks. Hailing from New Zealand, he proudly represents Samoa at the international level, having qualified through ancestry. With a successful career in rugby, Sopoaga has showcased his skills and expertise on the field, earning recognition for his strategic gameplay and strong performance as a key player for both his club and national team.

Owen Franks is a highly accomplished New Zealand rugby player known for his role as a tighthead prop. He has represented various teams, including the Canterbury Rugby Football Union and the Crusaders in the Super Rugby competition. Franks has made significant contributions to New Zealand rugby, playing 108 tests over a decade. He is renowned for his participation in winning the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups, making him one of only 21 players to achieve this feat multiple times. Additionally, Franks holds the record for the most international caps without scoring any points in a game.

Jeffrey William Wilson MNZM is a versatile New Zealand sportsman known for representing his country in rugby union and cricket, earning the rare distinction of being a "Double All Black". He has also showcased his athletic abilities in basketball and track and field. With an impressive record of 44 tries in 60 tests, Wilson is recognized as one of the top try scorers in rugby history. His professional career is marked by a combination of talent, skill, and dedication across multiple sports disciplines.

Isaiah Papali'i is a professional rugby league footballer known for his role as a second-row forward for the Wests Tigers in the NRL. He has represented both Samoa and New Zealand on the international stage. Prior to joining the Wests Tigers, Papali'i played for the New Zealand Warriors and the Parramatta Eels, showcasing his skills and versatility as a player. With a successful career in the NRL, Papali'i continues to make significant contributions to his teams through his athleticism and strong on-field presence.

Joseph Manu is a versatile professional rugby league player for the Sydney Roosters in the NRL and the New Zealand national team. He is known for his exceptional skills as a centre, fullback, winger, and five-eighth. Manu has been a key player in the Roosters' NRL Grand Final championship victories in 2018 and 2019. Widely regarded as one of the top centres in the sport, he continues to make significant contributions to his teams at both the club and international levels.

Liam Messam is a versatile New Zealand rugby union player known for his time playing in TOP14 for RC Toulonnais, previously representing the Chiefs in Super Rugby and Waikato in the ITM Cup. His primary positions are blindside flanker and he can also play at Number 8 and openside flanker. After the retirement of Mils Muliaina, he became the co-captain of the Chiefs alongside Aaron Cruden. Additionally, Messam is also a professional boxer, showcasing his athleticism and dedication to sports beyond rugby.

Issac Luke is a former professional rugby league footballer from New Zealand who played in the National Rugby League for teams like South Sydney Rabbitohs, New Zealand Warriors, St. George Illawarra Dragons, and Brisbane Broncos. He was an essential part of the South Sydney team that won the 2014 NRL Premiership. Luke was also a key player in the New Zealand national team's victory over Australia in the 2008 World Cup Final. Throughout his career, Luke showcased his talent and skills as a top-tier hooker in the rugby league world.

Ma'a Nonu is a highly accomplished professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He currently competes for the San Diego Legion in Major League Rugby, showcasing his exceptional skills primarily as an inside centre but also demonstrating versatility in outside centre and wing positions. Nonu has notably contributed to the success of the All Blacks, being a vital part of their victorious campaigns in the 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cups. Renowned for his outstanding abilities, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union.

Cory Jane is a renowned New Zealand rugby union player who has made significant contributions to the sport. He began his career playing for the All Blacks as a winger in 2008 and has since been a key player in various competitions, including the Tri Nations and Rugby World Cup. With experience playing for Wellington and the Wellington Hurricanes, Jane has showcased his talent on both national and international stages. Despite facing injuries at times, he has consistently demonstrated his skill and commitment to the game.

Victor Vito is a retired New Zealand rugby player and All Black who had a successful career playing blindside flanker for various teams. He was a standout player in New Zealand Sevens and captained the national Under 19 rugby team. Vito achieved success in the Rugby World Cup, winning in 2011 and 2015. He also played for Hurricanes in Super Rugby before moving to French team La Rochelle, where he received accolades such as the French Top 14 Player of the Year award.

Stephen Kearney is a prominent figure in New Zealand rugby league, known for his impressive career as both a player and coach. As a player, Kearney competed for various clubs, including the Auckland Warriors, Melbourne Storm, and Hull F.C., achieving notable victories such as the 1999 NRL Premiership and the 2005 Challenge Cup. Transitioning into coaching, he led the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL and the New Zealand national team to victories in the 2008 World Cup and 2011 Four Nations tournaments. Kearney also coached the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League.

James Fisher-Harris is a versatile professional rugby league player for the Penrith Panthers in the NRL, excelling as a prop, lock, and second-row forward. Representing both New Zealand and the New Zealand Māori at the international level, he has been a key player in the Panthers' success, winning three NRL premiership titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Known for his physicality, work ethic, and leadership on the field, Fisher-Harris is highly respected within the rugby league community for his contributions to the sport.

Eroni Clarke is a former New Zealand rugby union player who had a successful career playing for Auckland, the Blues, and the Highlanders. He made significant contributions to Auckland's rugby history, being one of the most capped players and scoring numerous tries. Clarke also represented New Zealand in test matches and made his international debut in 1992. In 2020, he was appointed as New Zealand Rugby's first Pasifika Engagement Manager. Clarke continues to stay involved in rugby through various matches and events, showcasing his passion for the sport.

Mils Muliaina is a retired professional rugby union player known for his versatility on the field. Primarily a fullback, he also showcased his skills as a centre and wing player during his career. He played for San Francisco Rush in the US PRO Rugby competition before retiring. Muliaina represented New Zealand at the international level from 2003 to 2011, earning 100 caps and scoring 33 tries for the All Blacks. He is recognized as one of the top try scorers in rugby union history.

Sir Michael Jones is a highly esteemed former rugby union player and coach from New Zealand. He was a key member of the dominant Auckland and Auckland Blues teams in the late 1980s and 1990s. Jones also represented both Western Samoa and New Zealand, winning the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. Known for his strong Christian beliefs, he refused to play on Sundays. Following his playing career, Jones served as the coach of Samoa and was later knighted for his contributions to the Pacific community and youth.

Jonah Lomu was a New Zealand professional rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest in the sport's history. Known for his speed, strength, and agility, he revolutionized the role of a winger with his physical presence. Lomu made a significant impact on rugby globally, earning numerous accolades and setting records. Despite battling a serious kidney disorder, he continued to inspire others through his charity work and ambassadorship. His sudden passing in 2015 prompted widespread tributes and recognition of his enduring legacy in rugby.

Martin Taupau is a professional rugby league footballer known for his versatility as a prop and lock player. He has represented both Samoa and New Zealand at the international level. Taupau has played for various teams in the National Rugby League (NRL) including the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and the Wests Tigers. Additionally, he has showcased his skills at the representative level by playing for the World All Stars team. Currently, he is a key player for the Brisbane Broncos.

Justin Marshall is a retired New Zealand rugby union player known for his successful career with the New Zealand All Blacks and the Crusaders in the Super 12. With 81 international caps, he represented his country on the rugby field from 1995 to 2005. After his time in New Zealand, Marshall ventured to Europe to play for various clubs such as Leeds Tykes, the Ospreys, Montpellier, and Saracens. He has since transitioned to a career in sports commentary, notably as a Sky Sports commentator covering All Blacks and provincial matches.

Israel Dagg is a former New Zealand rugby union player known for his time with the Crusaders in Super Rugby, representing Hawkes Bay in the ITM Cup, and playing for the New Zealand Sevens team. He had a successful international career with the All Blacks from 2010 to 2017, scoring 26 tries. Dagg retired from rugby in 2019 due to knee injuries but remains active in the sport as a member of the Crusaders' coaching staff and as part of the Sky Sport NZ rugby union commentary team.

Luke Whitelock is a highly accomplished New Zealand rugby union player known for his versatile skills as a loose forward. He currently plays for Section Paloise in France's Top 14 rugby competition. Throughout his career, Whitelock has showcased his leadership abilities by captaining Canterbury, the Highlanders, and the All Blacks. He has represented New Zealand in international matches, earning 7 caps between 2013 and 2018. With experience playing for notable teams like the Crusaders and participating in prestigious events such as the Barbarians F.C., Whitelock has established himself as a respected figure in the rugby world.

Gerard James Stokes was a prominent figure in the world of rugby league, both as a player and a coach. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he showcased his skills on the field before transitioning to coaching in the 1980s. His coaching career spanned several decades, including a notable role as the coach of the Serbian national rugby league team. Stokes made significant contributions to the sport, leaving a lasting impact on players and fans alike with his knowledge and passion for rugby league.

Codie Taylor is a professional rugby union player from New Zealand. He currently serves as a hooker for the Crusaders in Super Rugby and is contracted to Canterbury for New Zealand's National Provincial Championship. Taylor also represents New Zealand on the international stage, showcasing his skills and dedication to the sport. With a strong presence in both domestic and international competitions, Taylor has proven himself as a valuable asset in the world of rugby, consistently delivering impressive performances on the field.

Zinzan Brooke is a former New Zealand rugby union player known for his exceptional career as a number eight. He represented New Zealand in 58 tests and played 42 non-international matches for the All Blacks. Brooke captained the Auckland Blues to victory in the Super 12 championships in 1996 and 1997. He was a key player in Auckland's success in the National Provincial Championship during the late 1980s and 1990s. Brooke set a world record for forwards by scoring 17 tries in test matches and also played for New Zealand Māori.

Sitiveni Sivivatu had a successful professional rugby career as a wing player, notably playing for the Chiefs in the 2005 Super 12 season. He later secured a spot in the All Blacks, where he showcased his talent by scoring 29 tries in 45 tests. Additionally, he made significant contributions to the Pacific Islanders team, scoring 4 tries in 2004, including 2 against both the All Blacks and South Africa. His impressive performances earned him recognition in the rugby community and solidified his reputation as a skilled and dynamic player.

Anton Lienert-Brown is a prominent figure in professional rugby, known for his exceptional skills as a centre player. He has made a name for himself playing for the Super Rugby club Chiefs and representing the New Zealand national team. With a successful career in the sport, Lienert-Brown has showcased his talent on various platforms, earning recognition for his contributions to the game. His dedication and performance have solidified his position as a key player in both domestic and international rugby competitions.

Joseph Paulo is a versatile former professional rugby league player who excelled in various positions, including loose forward, second-row, and stand-off. He showcased his talents in top-tier leagues such as the NRL with teams like Penrith Panthers, Parramatta Eels, and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, as well as in the Betfred Super League with St Helens. Paulo also represented Samoa and the United States at the international level, demonstrating his skill and commitment to the sport. Additionally, he participated in prestigious events like the NRL All Stars and New South Wales City sides.

Gareth Anscombe is a versatile rugby union player known for his skills as a fly-half and fullback. He currently plays for Gloucester in the Premiership Rugby league and represents the national team of Wales. With a strong background in rugby, Anscombe has honed his abilities under the guidance of experienced coaches. His professional career is marked by a consistent display of talent and leadership on the field, making him a valuable asset to both his club and country.

Sekope Kepu is a highly accomplished Australian professional rugby union player known for his role as a prop. He has represented various clubs including Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby, New South Wales Waratahs in Australia, Bordeaux in France, and London Irish. Additionally, Kepu has been a key player for Australia's national team, the Wallabies, since his international debut in 2008. Renowned for his skills and experience, Kepu has amassed over 100 test appearances, making him one of the most-capped props in Wallabies history and a respected figure in the rugby world.

Richard Kahui is a retired New Zealand rugby union player known for his versatility in playing at centre and wing positions. He had a successful career playing for various teams, including the Highlanders and Chiefs in Super Rugby, Waikato in the National Provincial Championship, and representing New Zealand at the international level. Kahui also had a stint with the Western Force in Super Rugby AU. Throughout his professional career, he showcased exceptional skills, athleticism, and commitment to the sport, earning respect and admiration from fans and peers alike.

Mako Vunipola is a professional rugby union player who currently plays as a loosehead prop for French club Vannes in the Top 14. He previously represented the England national team, earning 79 caps since his debut in 2012. Vunipola has also toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2013, 2017, and 2021, accumulating a total of 9 caps. In 2018, he was honored with the England Player of the Year award, showcasing his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport at the highest level.

Sonny Fai was a talented professional rugby league footballer who played for the New Zealand Warriors. Known for his exceptional skills and athleticism, Fai made a significant impact on the field with his speed and agility. He was highly regarded by fans and teammates alike for his dedication to the sport and his team. Fai's presence on the field was always felt, and he played an integral role in the success of the New Zealand Warriors during his career.

Aaron Cruden is a prominent New Zealand rugby union player known for his time with Waikato, Montpellier, Manawatu, and the New Zealand national team. He primarily plays as a fly-half, demonstrating exceptional skill and versatility on the field. Throughout his professional career, Cruden has showcased impressive abilities in both domestic and international rugby competitions, earning a reputation as a reliable and dynamic player. His contributions to various teams and his consistent performance have solidified his status as a key player in the world of rugby union.

Carlos James Spencer is a former New Zealand rugby union player who played as a fly-half for the Blues and Lions in Super Rugby, as well as representing New Zealand at the international level. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, serving as the head coach for the Eastern Province Kings and the Munakata Sanix Blues. Currently, he is utilizing his expertise as an assistant coach for the New Orleans Gold in Major League Rugby (MLR), contributing his knowledge and experience to the development of the team.

Pat Lam is a highly respected figure in the world of rugby, having excelled both as a player and a coach. With an impressive playing career that saw him represent New Zealand and Samoa at various levels, he showcased his skills at clubs such as Auckland, North Harbour, Crusaders, Newcastle Falcons, and Northampton Saints. Transitioning into coaching after retirement, he has guided teams like Auckland and Connacht to success before taking on the role of Director of Rugby at Bristol Bears in England's Premiership Rugby.

Colin Slade is a retired New Zealand professional rugby union player known for his versatility in backline positions, primarily as a first five-eighth. He was a key member of the All Blacks, first selected in 2009 and contributing to the 2011 Rugby World Cup win. He participated in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, playing in one match against Namibia. With this, he joined an elite group of players who have won the Rugby World Cup multiple times, highlighting his skill and contribution to the sport.

Dane Coles is a former New Zealand rugby union player who achieved significant success during his career. He played a crucial role in the 2015 Rugby World Cup-winning team and led the Hurricanes to their first Super Rugby title in 2016 as captain. Coles was highly esteemed as one of the top hookers globally, earning a nomination for World Rugby Player of the Year in 2016. His impressive performance on the field showcased his skill, leadership, and contribution to the sport at an international level.

Wyatt Crockett is a retired New Zealand rugby union player known for his career as a prop for the Crusaders in Super Rugby, as well as playing for Canterbury, Tasman, and the All Blacks national team. With an impressive record of 202 Super Rugby appearances, Crockett holds the title of the most-capped player in the league's history. He attended Nelson College and Otago Boys High School before gaining recognition as a skilled and dedicated athlete in the world of professional rugby.