RWC: Dutchman is bonkers for ABs

Illustration / Rod Emmerson

Michel de Croes is an All Blacks fanatic, putting even Kiwis to shame with his devotion.

Hardcore All Blacks fan Michel de Croes is a man on a mission.

Having followed the team in black since the last Rugby World Cup tournament, in 2011, the Dutchman has gone on to learn all he can about the team, the culture and the country its players come from.

"I love the ABs and New Zealand rugby because they are the greatest of the world. I love the colour black - it's my favourite colour - so it's natural that I support the ABs," he said.

"I like the haka because it's something of the culture of New Zealand that I really love and I also taught it to my wife and daughter. Now, sometimes, they sing along with me."

Mr de Croes is in London for this year's tournament and, as a super All Blacks fan, has already snagged several impressive autographs and photos with some of the squad's top players.

He has also done one better than most fans - being recognised by his favourite player, Sonny Bill Williams.

"After the game against Namibia, my daughter and I went to their hotel.

"We saw the ABs' team bus, so we knew they were there. We were surprised we were the only fans in front of the hotel and after a few minutes we saw some players getting ready for the gym."

Players Jerome Kaino, Julian Savea and Williams walked across the road and Mr de Croes and his daughter jumped at the opportunity - running towards them for a photo and autograph.

He spoke briefly with Williams, congratulating him on an impressive game against Namibia and pulling out his All Blacks jersey for the player to sign.

Mr de Croes later went along to a meet and greet opportunity with the players outside an adidas store after seeing it advertised on social media.

"The most impressive moment for me was when Sonny saw us in the line of waiting [people] and he recognised us and gave us a wave."

Mr de Croes has also scored photos with Dan Carter, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Charlie Faumuina, Colin Slade, TJ Perenara, Victor Vito, Sam Cane and Malakai Fekitoa.

Mr de Croes - who frequently searches through social media and news articles about the All Blacks and their whereabouts - says he hopes to one day visit the country of his favourite team.

"My wish is to go to New Zealand some day and meet your lovely people, who I think are really kind.

"I've even thought about planning a sabbatical and quit my job for half a year to go to New Zealand and stay over there for some months."