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Sam Whitelock reveals why he doesn't want to keep that incredible record
By Grant Constable
Having recently announced his retirement from international rugby, Sam Whitelock has taken some time out to reflect on his record-breaking Test career, and look to the future of New Zealand rugby.
A farm boy at heart, the most capped All Black of all time recently told Johnnie Beattie that he still finds it hard to believe when people refer to that phenomenal record.
And he now wants someone to break it.
Speaking to Beattie on the latest episode of the new RugbyPassTV show Fresh Starts, the 153-cap second row wants to have left the future of New Zealand rugby in good hands.
“It was something I actually spoke to the guys about after I played my 150th. I talked around, I want that record to be broken.
“Richie [McCaw] also spoke around it too, because it means we’ll set up the next generation. We’ll set up the guys that might have played two or ten Test matches at the moment, because we were breaking down barriers, it’ll actually encourage them to do the same.
“What we’ve achieved will hopefully set the mark high for people, so then it’s going to be challenging to get there, but when they do break it, how awesome will that be?
“Taking that step back and actually helping other people, you probably get more enjoyment than achieving it yourself.”
The former Crusaders lineout ace went on to speak about the best coaches he’s had, as well as sharing his amusing thoughts on coach 'Razor' Scott Robertson, and spoke about the Rugby World Cup final that ‘got away’ from New Zealand.
Watch the full Fresh Starts episode on RugbyPass TV now
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Latest Comments
Aussie are certainly overdue to win the championship but I can't see it happening just yet. They are beginning to climb up again but still have a way to go. I think this season the Chiefs will take it out ahead of the Blues & Crusaders.
Go to commentsJust to clarify, none of the coaches I mentioned will be considered and I don't believe they should be with Les Kiss, Stephen Larkham and Michael Cheika as Australian coaches who could do a good job if Joe quits aftet the Lions series. Les Kiss is the reported front runner according to Christy Doran and Jamie Pandaram. South African coaches generally aren't considered for the role of Wallabies coach largely due to perceptions about their style. The coaches I mentioned though contradict the perception of unimaginative rugby.
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