There are only a few players in a fan’s lifetime that imprint their names and leave a lasting impression on an entire sporting public. Players that are recalled and talked about in pubs, mentioned and lauded in the media and those players’ deeds are emulated by children and young sports stars; think Michael Jordan in Basketball, Greg Norman in Golf or Wayne Gretzky in Ice Hockey. Richie McCaw is in that same league.
Over the time that I have admired him play for The Crusaders, he has left a mark on Super Rugby; always performing well in just about every game he was involved in. He was a standout when he was thrust into the side in 2002 and he has reached greater heights than many would have imagined. He has achieved feats, including amazing playing records and highlights, that when looked upon ensure that Richie’s name will be held in high esteem for generations to come.
He played 145 games in Crusader red; what he’s accomplished during his record-setting career seems almost insurmountable: 4 Championships, 100 Super Rugby wins to compliment the 100 All Blacks victories he has been involved in to date (which might never be topped) 27 tries scored, playoff matches and finals, countless man-of-the-match performances and endless vital interventions at crucial moments. If one sports person might be judged by their final act/match at club level, then a fine win up against the ‘old enemy’ A.C.T Brumbies on Saturday was a fitting tribute for him and long-time team mate and friend Dan Carter, who is leaving for European riches…..read more here
