New Zealander · Auckland, New Zealand · Born 27 May 1973Tana Umaga was a powerful All Blacks centre who captained New Zealand and was at the centre of the controversial 2005 Lions tackle on Brian O'Driscoll.
Jonathan Falefasa "Tana" Umaga ONZM was born on 27 May 1973 in Lower Hutt, New Zealand, to Samoan immigrant parents, and attended Parkway College before joining the Petone Rugby Club and progressing through Wellington's provincial system. He made his All Blacks debut in 1997 and developed into one of the most powerful and complete centres in the history of New Zealand rugby. Umaga became the first player of Pacific Island heritage to lead the All Blacks' haka, a role of significant cultural weight that he carried with pride throughout his international career, and was appointed team captain in 2004, leading New Zealand to Bledisloe Cup and Tri-Nations success in both 2004 and 2005. Umaga's tackle on British and Irish Lions captain Brian O'Driscoll during the first Test of the 2005 tour, which resulted in a serious shoulder injury and ended O'Driscoll's tour within the opening minute, became one of the most controversial and widely debated incidents in the sport's modern history, sparking a lasting international rugby dispute. Umaga retired from international rugby in 2005 with 74 Test caps, having also played club rugby in France for Toulon, and moved directly into coaching, leading Counties Manukau, the Blues, and later Moana Pasifika, as well as serving as an assistant coach for Samoa, the country of his heritage.
Former All Blacks captain
How They Played
Umaga was a physical, direct centre who combined powerful ball-carrying with excellent tactical awareness and leadership skills. His strength in contact and ability to break tackles made him a consistent threat in midfield, while his distribution and decision-making created opportunities for teammates.
Lasting Impact
Umaga is remembered as one of New Zealand's greatest captains, bringing calm leadership and setting high standards both on and off the field that influenced a generation of All Blacks players.
Career Honours
- Rugby Championship/Tri Nations titles as captain
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blues | 1996–2005 | 135 | 20 | #13 |
| Wellington | 1994–2005 | 177 | 20 | #13 |
| Toulon | 2005–2007 | — | — | — |
 New Zealand | — | 74 | 36 | — |
New Zealander Athletes