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Skipper Read still among the best Rugby players

RNZ/Reuters
Tokyo, November 2, 2019

Keiran Read with his men at the Rugby World Cup field (Picture for INPHO by James Crombie 2019

A former stand-out Cricketer, Keiran Read was widely considered to be the best number eight in international Rugby, winning the World Player of the Year award in 2013, when his pace allowed him to roam in the wide channels and set up his outside backs.

He was also a brutal defender, with his thundering tackle on Australia fullback Israel Folau in the opening seconds of the 2015 World Cup final setting the tone for the All Blacks in their 34-17 victory.

Game Change

Read’s game changed over the last two years as the All Blacks struggled to replace pack enforcer Jerome Kaino, with the number eight playing increasingly tighter and closer to the breakdown.

Keiran Read at the Rugby World Cup (Picture for INPHO by James Crombie 2019)

His physical style of play, however, eventually caught up with him, as he suffered concussion and a series of injuries.

Read admitted he found it hard to keep his emotions in check earlier in the week, knowing he would not clinch a third title.

Yet Coach Steve Hansen, who is also leaving the All Blacks after 16 years in charge, paid tribute to his Captain for the way he had been able to bury those feelings.

“He was hurting probably more than most. But he knew that he had to put his own personal feelings aside and knew that the team had to get up. I am sure that there are lots of New Zealanders and All Blacks fans all over the world who will be proud of what we did today,” he said.

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