Sam Whitelock: The All-Round Lock of New Zealand Rugby
Sam Whitelock is widely regarded as one of the greatest locks in New Zealand rugby history. Born on June 12, 1988, in Cambridge, New Zealand, Whitelock has been a cornerstone of the All Blacks since his debut in 2010. With an impressive career spanning over a decade, he has established himself as a versatile and dominant force in the sport.
The Early Years
Whitelock's journey to becoming one of New Zealand's most iconic locks began at a young age. Growing up in a rugby-loving family, he was encouraged to take up the sport from a tender age. He started playing for his local club, Cambridge Rugby Club, before moving on to play for Waikato and eventually making his way into the All Blacks.
| Year | Team | Position |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Cambridge Rugby Club | Lock |
| 2007-2010 | Waikato | Lock |
| 2010-present | All Blacks | Lock |
The All Blacks Years
Whitelock's debut for the All Blacks in 2010 marked the beginning of an incredible journey. He quickly established himself as a key player, known for his exceptional leadership skills, work rate, and ability to read the game. Over the years, he has been an integral part of several successful campaigns, including the 2015 World Cup-winning team.
- 2011 Rugby World Cup: Whitelock played a crucial role in New Zealand's quarterfinal victory over France.
- 2013 British and Irish Lions Tour: He was part of the All Blacks' squad that defeated the Lions 2-1.
- 2015 Rugby World Cup: Whitelock played in all seven matches, helping New Zealand win their second consecutive World Cup