All Black legend, Marshall, grateful to rugby

There is a long list of rugby stars set to take to the pitch this year at the Rugby Classic.

But amongst the likes of former British Lion Mal O’Kelly and Springbok giant Bobby Skinstad one name stands head and shoulders above the rest.

Justin Marshall is an All Black legend having donned the famous number nine shirt on no less than 81 occasions.

He scored 24 tries for his country and is the most-capped Kiwi halfback to have played the game.

He is also something of a journeyman having played in England, Wales and France since 2005.

Marshall was born in Matuara in 1973. He began his career with Southland before becoming a mainstay of the Canterbury Crusaders successful outfit.

He won four Super 12 titles for the club.

He broke into the All Blacks side for the 1995 tour of France and Italy and made his debut at the age of 22.

Two years later he was made captain of the New Zealand side – becoming the All Blacks 54th captain.

He retired from international rugby in 2005 with a record of 61 wins, one draw and just 19 defeats.

He featured in the 1999 and 2003 World Cups – which saw the All Blacks miss out on silverware.

Shortly after his retirement from international rugby Marshall left the shores of his homeland to play for the Leeds Tykes in the English Premiership.

He made the move across the border in 2006 to sign a two-year contract for the Ospreys

Two years later Marshall headed south to the French club Montpellier – but returned to England to play for Saracens in 2009.

He announced his retirement from all forms of the game in May of this year but continues to work for Sky Sports in a pundit’s capacity.

At the time of his retirement he told media: “I have given a lot to the game over the past 17 seasons, but rugby has given me much, much more,” he said.

“When I was 19, I was in danger of going off the rails, but I was given a chance to move to Christchurch and play for Canterbury.

“Later that year, I was picked for the All Blacks and this incredible journey began. I have been so fortunate to make so many friends in this game all around the world.”

“It has never been dull,” he said, “and I have to thank my wife Nicolle, and my children for supporting me during this period.

“My career has made massive demands on them, and now we’re all looking forward to going home to New Zealand and settling into something like a normal family life.

“I just feel immensely grateful to all the talented players and coaches who have made my career so enjoyable and memorable.”

Now at the age of 37 — he has moved back to his home country and divides his time between his wife and children and his television commitments.