New Zealander · Auckland, New Zealand · Born 8 April 1965The Iceman — widely regarded as the greatest openside flanker New Zealand rugby has produced and a player whose technical excellence at the breakdown, ball-carrying ability and leadership made him the template for the modern all-action back-row forward. Michael Jones won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987 and would have been central to New Zealand's subsequent tournaments but for his refusal to play on Sundays due to his Christian faith — a decision that cost him multiple test appearances and speaks to the depth of conviction that ran through his character both on and off the field.
Michael Jones was born on 8 April 1965 in Auckland, New Zealand, to Samoan parents, and is widely considered the finest openside flanker the game has produced. Known as "The Iceman" for his composure under pressure, he scored the first try of the inaugural 1987 Rugby World Cup, in the All Blacks' opening match against Italy, en route to lifting the trophy in New Zealand's triumphant home tournament. A devout Christian, Jones famously refused to play on Sundays for religious reasons throughout his career, a stance he maintained even at the 1991 World Cup, where it cost him selection for a semi-final. He won 55 Test caps for New Zealand across 13 years despite that self-imposed restriction and two serious knee reconstructions that would have ended most players' careers, and is credited with redefining the flanker position through his combination of pace, aggression and rugby intelligence.
He was a key member of the New Zealand team that won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987.
He refused to play on Sundays due to his Christian faith — missing important World Cup games — but is still regarded as the greatest open-side in All Black history.
Did You Know?How They Played
Jones was renowned for his exceptional speed and athleticism as an openside flanker, revolutionizing the position with his ability to support play across the field. His ball-handling skills were outstanding for a forward, and he possessed an uncanny ability to appear at the breakdown and create turnovers. He combined traditional forward skills with the pace and agility typically associated with backs.
Lasting Impact
Michael Jones is widely credited with redefining the modern openside flanker position, setting new standards for mobility and skill that influenced how the position is played today.
Career Honours
- World Cup 1987 (try in first game ever)
- 55 Tests for New Zealand
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Blues | 1996–1998 | 22 |
| Auckland | 1985–1998 | 105 |
 New Zealand | — | 55 |
New Zealander Athletes