All Black icon Zinzan Brooke has revealed his all-time rugby union dream team, and it’s causing a stir. There’s no place for Dan Carter, Richie McCaw, Martin Johnson, or Jonny Wilkinson in his selection!
Brooke, widely regarded as one of the greatest number eights in rugby history, redefined the role during his illustrious career. Known for his exceptional skill set, Brooke was as comfortable slotting a drop goal from 40 meters as he was dominating the breakdown.
He earned 58 caps for New Zealand between 1987 and 1997, scored 17 tries in Test rugby, and represented the All Blacks in two Rugby World Cups, helping them to glory in 1987.
At the domestic level, Brooke was a force of nature. He captained the Auckland Blues to back-to-back Super 12 titles in 1996 and 1997 and played a pivotal role in Auckland’s dominance of the National Provincial Championship during the late 1980s and 1990s. A true leader on and off the field, he inspired a generation of players with his innovative play.
Off the field, Brooke comes from a rugby dynasty, with brothers Marty and Robin also excelling in the sport. Since retiring, he’s remained active in the game as a coach, pundit, and ambassador for rugby globally.
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Zinzan Brooke’s World XV
- Fullback: Christian Cullen (New Zealand)
- Winger: David Campese (Australia)
- Centre: Phillipe Sella (France)
- Centre: Joe Stanley (New Zealand)
- Winger: Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
- Fly-Half: Beauden Barrett (New Zealand)
- Scrum-Half: Gareth Edwards (Wales)
- Prop: Os du Randt (South Africa)
- Hooker: Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand)
- Prop: Pascal Ondarts (France)
- Lock: Brodie Retallick (New Zealand)
- Lock: John Eales (Australia)
- Flanker: Michael Jones (New Zealand)
- Flanker: Jean-Pierre Rives (France)
- Number 8: Kieran Read (New Zealand)
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Rugby Quiz:
You have five minutes to name every club to have played in the Gallagher Premiership, all 28 of them, since the division was established back in 1987.
It’s more difficult than it sounds.
Good luck, and let us know how you do
