Damian McKenzie

Position: Utility Back Born: 20/4/1995 Physical: 1.77m, 78kg (5'10, 172lb) Test Debut: v Argentina 1 October 2016 in Buenos Aires A PLAYER with many strings to his bow and dubbed the smiling assassin by commentators and fans, Damian McKenzie is an absolute livewire for the All Blacks, whether it's fielding high kicks, kicking goals, sparking long-range counter attacks or slotting in on the wing or first five- eighth. Originally from Invercargill and schooled in Christchurch, McKenzie played for New Zealand Schools in 2013 and made his provincial debut in 2014. He initially specialised at 10 but was a standout at fullback for the Under 20s in 2014 and has spent most of his provincial, Super Rugby and All Blacks rugby in that position. That may change with the All Blacks coaches indicating they'll be looking to use him more at first five- eighth. McKenzie made his Super Rugby debut for the Chiefs in 2015 and also played for the Maori All Blacks that year. Selection in the All Blacks followed in 2016 and he made his debut against Argentina. With regular fullback Ben Smith away on sabbatical, McKenzie started every Rugby Championship Test in 2017, earning the award for man of the match against Argentina in Buenos Aires.