M.B Todd

Matt Todd is described by Steve Hansen as one of his favourite All Blacks – and it’s easy to see why. 

He is the ultimate team man, universally well-liked by rugby folks and fans, and has overcome setbacks by grabbing and cherishing every opportunity he gets in the All Blacks. 

He made his provincial debut for Canterbury in 2009 before becoming a Crusader in 2011 – the same year he trained with the All Blacks during RWC2011. 

He made his debut for the national side in 2013, then started at openside flanker in the historic All Blacks vs Samoa match in 2015. After missing out on selection for the All Blacks RWC2015 squad, he focused again on his beloved Canterbury and Crusaders teams and again showed he was among the top tier of loose forwards in the country. 

With Richie McCaw retired, Matt Todd made the Crusaders number seven jersey his own in 2016 with his pilfering and defensive ability complemented by an improving running game and earned a recall to the All Blacks again towards the end of the 2017 Investec Rugby Championship

Position: Loose Forward

Test Debut: v France at New Plymouth, 22 June 2013

Test Points: 15

All Blacks Caps: 25

Provincial Team: Canterbury

Super Rugby Team: Crusaders