The game’s leading points scorer in history, Carter is arguably rugby’s greatest fly-half as well.

Winning his first cap against Wales in 2003 at just 21 years old, he started along the path of rugby immortality with 20 points.

Although he did not become a regular in the All Blacks side until 2004, he quickly established himself as the pre-eminent No 10 in the world, dazzling 2005’s touring British & Irish Lions with his footwork, speed, offloading, passing ability, and his pinpoint kicking. The 33-year-old has twice been named IRB Player of the Year.

Carter missed New Zealand’s 2011 World Cup final win due to a groin injury, but was there four years later to play a pivotal role in the final as the All Blacks ran out 34-17 victors over Australia.