The daughter of the late All Blacks star Jerry Collins has shown incredible strength in her journey to recover from the devastating brain trauma she suffered in the tragic 2015 car crash that claimed the lives of both her parents.
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Investigators believe Collins, a New Zealand rugby legend, heroically used his body to shield his then-three-month-old daughter Ayla from the impact, sacrificing himself to protect her.
Later that month, the families of Collins and his partner, Alana Madill, shared an emotional update on Ayla’s health. Despite the odds, the baby had emerged from a coma and was ‘accepting bottle feeding.’
By Christmas of 2015, there was more heartening news. Ayla, then eight months old, had begun to crawl. Her grandfather, Darrell Madill, shared optimistic updates about her recovery, defying early fears that she might face lifelong disabilities.
“She’s recovered from a lot of injuries,” Darrell Madill told the New Zealand Herald.
“She talks in the baby way and plays with toys. Just normal things. She makes all kinds of baby sounds, she’s a very happy, cheerful little girl.
“I would say with time we’ll know if she will overcome all her brain trauma, but we’re optimistic… she’s very alert. I think she’s gonna do fine.
“My wife and I, we get down on the floor and help her put her arms and legs in the right positions and try to help her get used to the idea of crawling around.”
Now eight years old, it is believed Ayla continues to thrive, living in Canada with her grandparents as a testament to resilience and hope.
Retiring Peter O’Mahony ranks his three toughest opponents
So, who are the men that left a lasting impression on him? All three of O’Mahony’s picks are iconic All Blacks, renowned for their physicality, leadership, and undeniable skill. Let’s dive into the profiles of these rugby titans.
#3. Kieran Read
Position: Number 8
Caps: 128
O’Mahony on Read:
“Read was probably the most skilful I’ve come up against, whether it was backs or forwards—he’d be well up there as well.”
Player Bio:
Kieran Read was a dynamic and intelligent number 8, known for his exceptional skills both as a ball-carrier and a leader. He was a linchpin of the All Blacks for over a decade, earning 128 caps and captaining the side from 2013 to 2019. With a calm demeanour and excellent decision-making, Read helped lead New Zealand to Rugby World Cup victories and numerous Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders.
DID YOU KNOW?
Before making his mark in rugby, Read was a promising cricketer. He represented Northern District age-group teams and earned selection for New Zealand’s Under-17 cricket side.
#2. Richie McCaw
Position: Flanker
Caps: 148
O’Mahony on McCaw:
“One of my heroes. I feel very privileged to have played against him. The All Blacks have never replaced him.”
Player Bio:
Richie McCaw is widely regarded as one of the greatest rugby players of all time. As a flanker, his work rate, leadership, and mastery of the breakdown were unparalleled. McCaw earned an astounding 148 caps for the All Blacks and captained the team to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. His longevity, mental toughness, and ability to perform under pressure set him apart as a true legend of the game.
DID YOU KNOW?
McCaw’s roots trace back to Scotland, and as a nod to his heritage, he learned to play the bagpipes. Off the field, he’s known for his humility and quiet leadership.
#1. Jerry Collins
Position: Flanker
Caps: 48
O’Mahony on Collins:
“In games, I remember that Ospreys team when I first started off. They had a back-row of Jerry Collins, [Filo] Tiatia, and Marty Holah. I was just out of my teens. It was a nasty enough back-row to come up against. Collins was a vicious bas***rd but a real gentleman off the pitch.”
Player Bio:
Jerry Collins was a ferocious flanker who embodied raw physicality and fearless tackling. With 48 caps for the All Blacks, Collins’ imposing presence on the field earned him a reputation as one of the toughest and most uncompromising players of his era. He was known not only for his devastating tackles but also for his leadership at club level, including stints with the Hurricanes and Ospreys.
DID YOU KNOW?
Collins was a cousin of fellow All Black great Tana Umaga. Tragically, Collins passed away in 2015, but his bravery and heart—both on and off the field—remain legendary.
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Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?
Whether it’s the grit of Will Carling in the 90s, the tactical brilliance of Martin Johnson, or the fearless leadership of Owen Farrell, this quiz will challenge even the most dedicated fans.
Think you can name them all? Grab your boots and let’s see how well you know the men who led England into battle on the world stage!
