New Zealander · Motueka, New Zealand · Born 7 December 1985Kieran Read was an All Blacks captain and number eight who won back-to-back Rugby World Cups and was named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2013.
Kieran James Read ONZM was born on 26 October 1985 in Papakura, New Zealand, and attended Rosehill College before progressing through Canterbury's provincial system and into the Crusaders' Super Rugby side. He made his All Blacks debut in 2008 and developed into one of the most complete number eights in the history of the game, combining physical power, ball skills, and tactical intelligence. Read was named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2013, and captained the All Blacks from 2016, leading the side with the same calm authority that had defined his playing style throughout his career. He was a key figure in New Zealand's back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015, and captained the side at the 2019 tournament in Japan, where the All Blacks finished third. Read spent his entire Super Rugby career with the Crusaders, winning multiple titles, before finishing his New Zealand career with Counties Manukau. He earned well over 100 Test caps across an 11-year international career, cementing his standing as one of the finest back-row forwards New Zealand has ever produced. After the 2019 World Cup, Read moved to Japan to play for Toyota Verblitz, continuing his career in the Top League before retiring. He was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his services to rugby.
All Blacks captain and No.8, two-time World Cup winner
How They Played
Read was renowned for his exceptional lineout skills, consistently winning ball at the back of the lineout and disrupting opposition throws. His ball-handling abilities were outstanding for a forward, allowing him to link play between forwards and backs with precise passing and offloading. He combined powerful ball-carrying with intelligent positional play and was equally effective in both attack and defense.
Lasting Impact
Read is widely regarded as one of the greatest number 8s in rugby history, setting the standard for modern back-row play with his complete skill set. His leadership and consistency helped maintain New Zealand's dominance during one of their most successful periods.
Career Honours
- Rugby World Cup winner 2011, 2015
- World Rugby Player of the Year 2013
- All Blacks captain
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crusaders | 2007–2019 | 127 | 0 | #8 |
 New Zealand | — | 127 | — | — |
New Zealander Athletes