Kieran Read

Kieran Read was the engine room of the All Blacks for over a decade. As a number 8, he possessed an incredible work rate, excellent handling skills, and a high level of tactical intelligence. Read was a natural leader who took over the captaincy after Richie McCaw, guiding the team with composure and skill. His ability to link play between forwards and backs made him a vital component of the All Blacks' attacking structure.

He was a consistent performer who rarely had a bad game, embodying the professionalism and excellence of the New Zealand rugby system.