One of the world game's most influential players of the professional era, Mehrtens' tactical nous has been the driving force behind many famous All Blacks, Crusaders and Canterbury victories.

After missing out on the Rugby World Cup squad in 2003, Mehrtens was recalled to the All Blacks in 2004 and showed why he has amassed 967 points in Test rugby, the highest number of points in New Zealand rugby and the third highest internationally.

Mehrtens has revitalised his game and says he is feeling as good as ever. His record as a prankster means he not only keeps the opposition on their toes but also team-mates.

He passed John Kirwan's record for number of Test matches (63) by an All Black back with his appearance against England in 2002 and was the New Zealand Player of the Year in 1999.

He is a prodigious goal-kicker and has set numerous point-scoring records.