Brodie Retallick to run out for 100th Investec Super Rugby game for Gallagher Chiefs

Chiefs co-captain Brodie Retallick is set to become the sixth Chiefs player – and first New Zealand player this season - to reach 100 Investec Super Rugby games, in the side’s match against the Brumbies tonight.

The 27 year old lock joins current team mates co-captain Sam Cane and first-five eighth Stephen Donald in reaching the milestone. The 2.04m lock is a formidable member of the Gallagher Chiefs team since his debut in 2012 against the Highlanders. His power, athleticism and aggressive defence have defined him as key play maker for the Gallagher Chiefs and the All Blacks.

Retallick said it was special to join a select group of current and former Chiefs, who have all played an important role in what it means to play for the Gallagher Chiefs.

“It’s a huge honour to play for this team, to reach 100 games and be among a number of legendary players of the game is hard to believe. There’s a fantastic culture within the side. The mana each player and member of the team brings is something special and this is what keeps you coming back for more. I am proud of how I have developed as a player and will look forward to continuing to deliver for the team both on and off the field.”

Retallick will return home following the Chiefs clash against the Brumbies on Saturday in Canberra before officially celebrating the milestone.

“I will be looking forward to returning home to celebrate the achievement in front of my family and supporters next weekend at FMG Stadium Waikato when we take on the Sunwolves,” said Retallick.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew congratulated Retallick on his impending milestone.

“Reaching this milestone is no small achievement. Like the Investec Super rugby centurions before him, Retallick can be proud of the important role he plays in New Zealand, and Chiefs, rugby. He is a formidable figure on the field, who empties the tank in giving 100 per cent to every minute of every game he plays for the Chiefs and the All Blacks. It is one of the reasons many consider him the best lock in the world. Off the field, he is a committed and loyal ambassador of the game.

“We congratulate him as he prepares for his 100th Super Rugby match, and we look forward to celebrating this achievement with Chiefs fans at their next home game in Hamilton next week,” Tew said.

New Zealand Rugby will present Retallick with the traditional gift for New Zealand Super Rugby centurions - a greenstone mere - in Hamilton next week.

Gallagher Chiefs Head Coach Colin Cooper said the team are determined to celebrate Retallick’s milestone with a credible performance against the Brumbies.

“Brodie is a valued member of our team, he delivers week in and week out for the team. He holds a huge amount of respect among the team and I know the boys will want to put a performance befitting this milestone on the field come Saturday night.

“100 Super Rugby games is a real testament to Brodie’s character. He leads by example on the field, his aggression, power and ability to bring an extra edge makes him a great player. Off the field he inspires the youngsters and personifies a true team man. It's a special milestone and one we look forward to celebrating on Saturday but more importantly when we return to home soil,” said Cooper.

Chiefs Rugby Club CEO Michael Collins said it was a fantastic achievement and congratulated the Gallagher Chiefs co-captain on his achievement.

“It is a fantastic achievement to play 100 Super Rugby games especially considering the type of player that Brodie is; he’s always close to the action, he is constantly involved. An aggressive player with a big engine and a massive appetite for work.

“He has cemented himself as a legendary Gallagher Chiefs player as well as a world class All Black. I know that the Chiefs staff, stakeholders & supporters will congratulate Brodie on the milestone and look forward to celebrating this achievement when he returns to FMG Stadium Waikato to face the Sunwolves,” said Collins.

Originally, from the North Canterbury town of Amberley, Retallick shifted north to Hawke's Bay in 2010. He made his debut in 2010 for the Hawke’s Bay provincial side. Two years later he became Chiefs #207 when he made his Investec Super Rugby debut against the Highlanders. Later that year Retallick earned his first Test cap against Ireland in 2012 and has now made 72 appearances for the All Blacks.

Retallick will be formally acknowledged on home soil when the Gallagher Chiefs take on the Sunwolves at FMG Stadium Waikato on Saturday 2 March at 7.35pm. “Retallick 100 bundles” are on sale to commemorate the milestone which include a Retallick t-shirt and a seat in “The Retallick Zone” when the Gallagher Chiefs take on the Sunwolves: https://www.chiefs.co.nz/