AUCKLAND – All Black Keven Mealamu has announced that he will retire from all forms of rugby after the conclusion of New Zealand’s Rugby World Cup campaign.
Mealamu is one of New Zealand’s most loyal servants of the game in a career that has spanned over 100 tests and will span over four World Cup campaigns. Making his debut in 2002 against Wales in Cardiff, he has gone on to play 126 test matches. Mealamu also holds the record for Super Rugby appearances tallied at 175 and was the third All Blacks player to reach 100 tests.
In announcing his retirement at the conclusion of New Zealand’s test season, Mealamu will join a host of All Blacks who will either retire or leave New Zealand for greener pastures in the North. Mealamu is set to be joined by Richie McCaw and Tony Woodcock who are expected to announce retire after the World Cup with fellow veterans Dan Carter, Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith taking up big money contracts in Europe.
The veteran Tokoroa-born Blue will be remembered as one of the toughest competitors on the field and one of the most gentlest characters off it. Following retirement, Mealamu will take up a part time role as an ambassador for New Zealand Rugby Union.