New Zealand legend Dan Carter has revealed what his three favourite stadiums were to play at on the entire rugby circuit.
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Carter has no shortage of great memories on the rugby pitch, having won numerous trophies at both club and international level, while he also picked up a number of individual awards, including winning the World Rugby player of the year award three times.
#3. Twickenham Stadium, London
Carter’s personal favourite moment from his career comes from New Zealand’s 2015 Rugby World Cup final triumph against Australia at Twickenham however, as he slotted a drop goal from 40 metres out to stem the tide of a Wallabies comeback.
“All such special memories but hard to go past the RWC final drop goal,” Carter tweeted, in response to a Rugby World Cup post asking fans what their favourite moment from the All Blacks fly-half was.
He added: “Twickenham, the home of rugby, was certainly bouncing that night.”
#2. Eden Park, Auckland
Carter said: “Under lights, especially, the place comes alive.”
The 50,000-capacity stadium is the largest in New Zealand and is situated near Auckland’s central business district below the imposing backdrop of Mount Eden.
#1. Principality Stadium, Cardiff
It’s an arena based bang in the centre of the Welsh capital and the retractable roof, when used, seals in the fervour.
Carter said: I’m often asked which is my favourite stadium at which to play. I always say the Millennium. I’ve got a lot of great memories of playing there.
“It’s an amazing place with an awesome atmosphere. The people of Cardiff and Wales are like the Kiwis back home. They are so passionate about their rugby.
“Also, as a kicker, it’s quite handy having a roof on it too. That takes away the wind and rain which you can have a bit of in Cardiff. That’s an added bonus.”
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
In his remarkable lineup, Owens features three Welsh luminaries – Alun Wyn Jones, Shane Williams, and Gethin Jenkins. Additionally, he acknowledges the contributions of Lee Byrne, Dwayne Peel, and Leigh Halfpenny to the sport.
Notably, a striking facet of Owens’ chosen players is their collective leadership qualities, with the majority of the selected individuals having served as captains for their respective nations.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
