Carl Hayman became the 1000th All Black because of alphabetical ranking as he and Mark Ranby made a photo-finish dash into action from the subs bench in 2001 against Samoa.
For the next few years Hayman was an occasional All Black and it was not until Graham Henry became coach in 2004, that he became a regular tighthead choice.
Hayman had a strong technique, tidy skills and strong defence while his 1.93m frame was a massive benefit as a lineout lifter. His production was so valued by the All Blacks that when he began to think about an offshore deal, all sorts of ideas were flouted as a way of retaining Hayman in New Zealand.
He was only 27 when he traded in his 45 caps for what was reputed to be a UK record $1m annual salary with Newcastle. Three years there, then a switch to Toulon and a change of lifestyle in the south of France has been his rugby path.
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Advertise with NZME.Ever the pragmatist Hayman had his eye trained on life after rugby and a probable return to New Zealand and a farming lifestyle. The Euro would help substantially.
"I guess there's a time in one's life and one's career when you have to be a bit selfish sometimes and think of yourself," he said when he left the All Blacks for a career offshore.
"Up until I came to Europe, everything I did was for the All Black jersey and for my province.
"It was just one of those decisions in life you have to make. I'm sure most people put in the same scenario would do the same thing."
Statistics
Date of birth: 14 November 1979
Position: Tighthead prop
Matches: 46
Tests: 45
Test debut: 16 June 2001 v Samoa, Albany
Last test: 6 October 2007 v France at Cardiff
Province: Otago
Franchise: Highlanders
Test tries: 2
Test points: 10
