Biography
Zinzan Valentine Brooke MNZM, born Murray Zinzan Brooke on February 14, 1965, in Waiuku, New Zealand, is widely regarded as one of the greatest number eights in rugby history. Standing 1.90m tall and weighing 102kg, he combined exceptional athleticism with the flair of a backline player, making him a unique and dynamic force in the forward pack.
Brooke earned 58 test caps for the All Blacks between 1987 and 1997, scoring 17 tries—a then-record for a forward. Known for his powerful running, precise handling, and unorthodox kicking skills, he left an indelible mark on the sport. Among his most famous moments is a stunning 48-metre drop goal in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, showcasing his rare versatility.
He also represented New Zealand Māori and was a key figure in Auckland’s dominance during the 1980s and 1990s. His leadership led the Auckland Blues to Super 12 titles in both 1996 and 1997.
In recognition of his contributions, Brooke was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 1997.
Teams Played For
- Auckland (Provincial): 1986–1997
- Auckland Blues (Super Rugby): 1996–1997
- New Zealand (All Blacks): 1987–1997
- Lazio (Italy): 1986–1992
- Casale (Italy): 1992–1993
- Harlequins (England): 1997–2001
- Coventry (England): 2001–2003
- Windsor RFC (Amateur, England): Post-retirement
Rugby World Cups Played
- 1991 Rugby World Cup
- 1995 Rugby World Cup
Key Career Highlights
- 58 Test matches for the All Blacks, scoring 89 points
- Captain of Auckland Blues, winning back-to-back Super 12 titles in 1996 and 1997
- Scored three drop goals in test matches – including a 48-metre drop goal in the 1995 World Cup
- Scored a drop goal at Wembley Stadium in 1997, making him the only rugby player to do so at that venue
- Named the 9th greatest rugby player of all time by Will Carling in The Daily Telegraph (2007)
- Published autobiography Zinny: The Zinzan Brooke Story in 1995
- Inducted into TVNZ’s This Is Your Life Wall of Fame during the 2011 Rugby World Cup
Personal Life
Zinzan Brooke is part of a sporting family—his brother Robin Brooke also played for the All Blacks, while another brother, Marty, represented Auckland and Southland. He is a distant relative of rugby league and union player Gerard Beale.
The name “Zinzan” is a traditional one in the Brooke family, with possible Italian or Albanian roots, and also appears in the lineage of New Zealand cricketer Zin Harris.
He is of Māori descent, affiliated with the Ngāpuhi iwi, and has a son, Lucas Brooke, who currently plays rugby in England.
After retiring, Brooke moved to England and co-ran a boutique bed and breakfast with his wife in Windsor, Berkshire. However, financial difficulties led to bankruptcy in 2012. In 2007, he suffered a serious head injury in a fall while in Spain. In recent years, he has drawn controversy for sharing unverified medical opinions online during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite challenges off the field, Zinzan Brooke remains a revered figure in world rugby—an icon known for his innovation, toughness, and unforgettable flair.