Zinzan Brooke gets emotional. Reflects on his career, whānau and bankruptcy

Published 2024-07-16
Zinzan Brooke is regarded as one of the greatest players to pull on an All Blacks jersey. He's been living in England for over 25 years. Hikurangi Jackson caught up with him at Windsor Castle as he reflects on his impressive career and why he is outspoken on issues.

All Comments (21)
  • Respect from a Saffa. This chap was a "SERIOUS industrial strenght' All Black forward. Make no mistake. If I remember correctly I saw Zinzan in a test against the Springboks in Cape Town. Many years ago. In one incident he gathered the ball well over the halfway line in All Black territory. Quick as a flash, a brief look, and a dropkick. It sailed over our crossbar. Also when things got tough as Rugby did those days, he was NEVER 'shy!" Remarkable talent, and player, and a good bloke to top it all.
  • @Badlighter
    What a rugby player. Seems an even better bloke, father and son. Stay well, Zinzan
  • @jbrassic5434
    My absolute FAVOURITE NZ sportsman, not just AB. This man is the real deal, full package. I would dearly love to have a beer with him. After a pre season match in Greymouth at the dawn of super rugby, when we were allowed to get autographs on field, I asked to take his picture. He instead told everyone to step back, placed his hands on my shoulders and smiled for a photo WITH me. I still have the photo and will cherish it forever. Nobody ever took the time to do that. I still don't know why he did it for me, when there were hundreds of other enthusiastic kids out there. I would love to tell him how much that impacted me, how much he inspired me to be the best I can in whatever I do. The man walks with a great deal of mana. Thank you Zinny
  • @taraishot100
    Zin Zan one of the greatest All Blacks number 8 of all time
  • @higgyrow
    I watched ZinZan practice for the AB's at St Bedes College in Christchurch. I was 18. I fell in love with him before he kicked that incredible drop goal against the Springboks. The whole world erupted at his confidence & skill. I am Ngā Puhi and so is he. Whanau from NZ. Bless you and your whanau Zinzan.
  • One of my favourite All Blacks of all time. The man could do everything on a Rugby paddock and in my opinion the best number 8 i have seen in my life so far. Time to come home bro.
  • @kraaidievoel
    What a man!! Always liked him, now I love the man
  • As an Englishman I didnt enjoy his drop goal against us at the WC semi 1995 which was insult to injury on top of what Lomu was doing to us! But you have to admire that skill now alongside everything else he could do. Hes a good guy too.
  • @fu8713
    Zinny Fitzy Iceman AMAZING The epitome of All Blacks great legends 🫡🫡🫡
  • Great interview,great fella.Saw the best of him in an Auckland jersey when I lived there in 1991.Never knew he lived in the UK tho😲 Kia Kaha Zinzan from a Welshman 👍
  • @bg365
    Great player, so good to see him in this video!
  • @Kraaavity
    Played with heart, grit and determination.
  • @sirroger1792
    Had the pleasure to watch Zinzan on a few occasions at the Hong Kong Rugby 7s when he was an up and coming young prospect. Wonderful player. I suspect he downed a few tinnies down the Wanch .Great times.
  • Great korero Zinnie, straight up as usual. All the best brother
  • I remember when zinny, buck,Ian, turned up to our primary school. Those were the days when players cared. A real legend .
  • Springbok fans of a certain age remember this Legend of the game fondly. Respect to you Zinzan. Great players are the ones you hate playing against and he most certainly fitted that mould. Love it.