New Zealander · Dunedin, New Zealand · Born 13 August 1969Josh Kronfeld was a standout All Blacks openside flanker during the mid-to-late 1990s, part of the 1995 World Cup runner-up squad.
A cornerstone of New Zealand's All Blacks at two World Cups, in 1995 and 1999, Josh Kronfeld redefined what an openside flanker could contribute at the breakdown and earned 54 Test caps across a career that set the template for generations of New Zealand back-row players. He progressed through Otago's provincial system and became one of the most dynamic openside flankers of his generation. Kronfeld played for the Otago Highlanders in Super Rugby and made his All Blacks debut in the mid-1990s, quickly establishing himself as one of the finest breakdown specialists in world rugby, renowned for his relentless work rate and ability to disrupt opposition possession. He represented New Zealand at both the 1995 and 1999 Rugby World Cups. Kronfeld earned 54 Test caps for New Zealand across 56 total appearances for the All Blacks, becoming one of the most respected flankers of the professional era's early years, before finishing his career in England with Leicester Tigers. Kronfeld's influence on the openside flanker position extended well beyond his playing career, with later stars including Ardie Savea earning praise from Kronfeld himself, reflecting his ongoing standing as a respected elder statesman of New Zealand's back-row tradition.
World-class All Blacks openside flanker of the 1990s
How They Played
Kronfeld was renowned for his exceptional skills at the breakdown, where his speed to the ball and ability to win turnovers made him one of the most effective opensides in world rugby. He possessed outstanding fitness levels and work rate, covering every blade of grass during matches. His low body position and technical proficiency at rucks and mauls, combined with his pace around the field, made him a constant threat to opposition possession.
Lasting Impact
Kronfeld set the standard for modern openside flanker play and influenced a generation of loose forwards with his breakdown techniques and fitness standards.
Career Honours
- Tri Nations title 1997
- All Blacks regular through the 1990s
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highlanders | 1996–2000 | 56 | 0 | #7 |
| Otago | 1988–2000 | 142 | — | #7 |
| Leicester Tigers | 2000–2002 | — | — | — |
 New Zealand | — | 54 | 16 | — |
New Zealander Athletes