All Blacks ‘through the gate’ tribute to captain fantastic Richie McCaw

The All Blacks' social media team are winning the November internationals hands down...

Last week the Kiwis tweeted a tongue-in-cheek 'good luck' message to Scotland, ahead of their 23-15, and now they have paid the ultimate tribute to Richie McCaw. The flanker will lead New Zealand for the 100th time when he lines up against Wales this weekend. The All Blacks posted this picture of McCaw and his superb moustache with the comment 'Know your rugby laws? Here is a shot of All Blacks captain Richie McCaw entering through the gate.' The Cantabrian is notorious for borderline illegal activity at the breakdown yet never seems to earn all the yellow cards his actions deserve. McCaw made his debut against Ireland in 2001 and was named man-of-the-match as the ABs came back from 21-7 behind to win 40-29. He first captained his country in 2004, against Wales, and was given the honour on a permanent basis in 2006. In 2011 he captained New Zealand to World Cup glory. The nearest players in terms of captaining their country are Brian O'Driscoll (84) and John Smit (83). McCaw's winning record as captain is a staggering 88 per cent. New Zealand coach Steve Hansen commented, 'There is no doubt his leadership has grown phenomenally and he is now one of the all-time great leaders in any sport.' This clip for RWC 2011 sums up McCaw's action man status and ability to turn the ball over from any position, even upside down.