'Mils' Muliaina's ability to read the game and put himself in the right position is superb, and he is one of the best counter-attackers in the game.

With Auckland team-mates Joe Rokocoko and Doug Howlett, the All Blacks outside trio are the most feared in world rugby.

A multi-talented player, the Southlander is equally at home at centre or the wing where he spent most of his formative years.

He first sprang to prominence at national level when he shifted north to Auckland to board at Kelston Boys'High School (All Blacks coach Graham Henry' old school as principal) and promptly made it into the NZ Schools team.

Muliana then graduated to the NZ Under 21 side for 2000 and 2001.

He has played 11 tournaments for the national Sevens team, including winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2002 in Manchester.