New Zealander · Te Kuiti, New Zealand · Born 3 June 1936Pine Tree — Colin Meads is the most iconic All Black in the history of New Zealand rugby union and a symbol of the game's physical and moral values for three generations of players. Meads played 55 Tests between 1957 and 1971, captained New Zealand in 14 of them and was the most feared lock forward in the world across two decades. His famous dismissal in the 1967 test against Scotland — the only All Black sent off in a test for 70 years — only added to the mythology surrounding a player whose physical presence, commitment and longevity made him the template for everything New Zealand rugby aspired to produce.
Colin Earl Meads was born on 3 June 1936 in Cambridge, New Zealand, and grew up on a farm in the King Country, work that built the extraordinary physical strength that became his trademark. Nicknamed "Pinetree" for his size and toughness, he made his All Blacks debut in 1957 and went on to play 55 Tests and 133 matches in total for New Zealand across a 14-year career, an era in which he became the most feared and respected lock in the world game. His most famous moment of adversity came in 1967, when he was sent off against Scotland — only the second All Black ever dismissed in a Test — for a high tackle, an incident that only added to his fearsome reputation. Meads captained New Zealand and later coached the national side, and in 1999 he was named New Zealand Rugby's Player of the Century, a recognition of his status as arguably the most influential forward the sport had produced. After retiring, he remained a beloved figure in New Zealand rugby until his death in 2017, with the King Country rugby ground later renamed Rugby Park - Colin Meads Stadium in his honour.
Being named New Zealand's Player of the Century in 1999, cementing his status as the greatest All Black forward in history.
How They Played
Meads was a dominant lock forward known for his exceptional lineout skills, powerful scrummaging, and remarkable physical strength. His aggressive, uncompromising style epitomized the traditional All Blacks forward play, combining technical excellence with intimidating physicality. He possessed outstanding ball-handling skills for a forward of his era and was equally effective in tight and loose play.
Lasting Impact
Meads is widely regarded as one of the greatest All Blacks of all time and set the standard for New Zealand forward play for generations. His influence extended beyond playing, as he became an iconic figure representing the values and spirit of New Zealand rugby.
Career Honours
- 55 All Blacks Tests
- New Zealand Player of the Century
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| King Country | 1957–1971 | — |
 New Zealand | — | 55 |
New Zealander Athletes