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Rugby Union Biography

Colin Meads

New Zealander · Born 1936 · Died 2017

New ZealandAll BlacksPinetree
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55
tests

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Pinetree — the All Blacks' most feared forward and the defining figure of New Zealand rugby for a generation, named New Zealand's Player of the Century.

Colin Meads is the most celebrated New Zealand rugby player of the pre-professional era and was named New Zealand's Player of the Century in 1999. His physical power, competitive ferocity and sheer presence made him the most feared forward in rugby for over a decade. He played 133 matches for the All Blacks — 55 of them Tests — and was notoriously sent off against Scotland in 1967.

He famously trained by running up hills carrying a sheep — an image that became one of rugby's most enduring legends.

Did You Know?

Career Honours

  • 55 All Blacks Tests
  • New Zealand Player of the Century