Considered one of the greatest fly-half in the game, this All Blacks superstar was born on this day 34 years ago. He was near faultless in every department: in attack, while making a break or kicking tactically and accurately at goal.

Brave and unyielding on defence, he repeatedly proved his ability to play with almost equal effectiveness in other positions, particularly the midfield. His tally of 1,598 points is the highest in Test rugby.

He was named the International Rugby Board player of the year in 2005, 2012 and 2015 and has won four Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders, and six Tri-Nations and Rugby Championships with the All Blacks. A dual Rugby World Cup winner (2011 and 2015) he was man of the match in the 2015 final.

After ending his international career last year, he currently plays for French club, Racing 92.