New Zealand number eight and World Cup-winning captain whose tactical intelligence, outstanding lineout work and powerful carrying made him the most complete number eight of his generation.
Kieran Read was New Zealand's outstanding number eight and captain, winning three World Cups and being named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2013. His combination of exceptional leadership, powerful carrying, dominant ball-winning in the lineout, and consistent defending made him the benchmark for the modern number eight. His partnership with Richie McCaw in the All Blacks' loose forward trio was one of rugby's most celebrated.
Career Journey
Timeline
1980
👶 Born in Motueka, New Zealand
2018
🏁 Retired from professional sport
🏟️ Crusaders
🏟️ Highlanders