Rieko Ioane is a prominent New Zealand rugby union player who has made significant contributions to both his club and national teams. He began his professional journey with Auckland in 2015, quickly establishing himself as a key player at just 17 years old. His impressive performances earned him a spot in the Blues Super Rugby squad in 2016, where he became a regular starter, showcasing his versatility as both a wing and centre. Ioane’s dynamic playing style and ability to score tries made him one of the standout players in the 2017 Super Rugby season, where he led the Blues with ten tries.
Ioane’s international career took off when he made his senior debut for the All Blacks in 2016, becoming one of the youngest players to represent New Zealand. His remarkable talent was recognized as he was nominated for the World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in both 2017 and 2018. During the 2017 Rugby Championship, he emerged as a key player, finishing as one of the highest try-scorers and earning the Man of the Match award against Australia.
In 2018, Ioane continued to excel, scoring a hat-trick against France and leading the try-scoring charts in the Rugby Championship. His contributions were pivotal in the All Blacks’ success, and he played a crucial role in their campaigns, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where he scored a try in the pool stages.
Most recently, Ioane helped the Blues secure the Super Rugby Trans-Tasman title in 2021 and played a vital role in their journey to the final of the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific. His commitment to the sport was further solidified when he re-signed with New Zealand Rugby until 2027, ensuring that fans can continue to witness his exceptional talent on the field.