A legendary rugby fullback known for his electrifying pace, elusive running, and prolific try-scoring ability, earning him numerous accolades and a place among the all-time greats.
Christian Mathias Cullen, nicknamed the Paekakariki Express, is widely regarded as one of the most potent running fullbacks in rugby history. With an impressive 46 tries scored in 58 tests, he stands as the 9th highest try scorer in international rugby.
Born on 12 February 1976 in Paraparaumu, New Zealand, Cullen grew up in the small town of Paekakariki, north of Wellington. He was the youngest of three children, with an elder twin brother, Shane, and a sister, Anita. Cullen's rugby talent emerged during his high school years, earning him selection in the New Zealand secondary schools team in 1993 and 1994.
Cullen's provincial career was just the beginning, as he was selected to the New Zealand sevens squad for tournaments in Fiji and Hong Kong in 1996. That same year, he scored 18 tries at the World Sevens competition in Hong Kong, including seven in one match. This impressive performance earned him a spot on the All Blacks team, where he scored seven tries in his first two Test matches, including a hat-trick on debut against Samoa and four tries against Scotland.
In 1996, Cullen sustained a knee cartilage injury on the All Blacks tour to South Africa. However, he made a remarkable comeback in 1997, scoring 11 tries in 10 games for the Hurricanes and 12 tries in 12 Test matches for the All Blacks.
Cullen's impressive rugby career and achievements have left a lasting impact on the sport. He is remembered for his speed, agility, and skill on the field, earning him the nickname the Paekakariki Express. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of rugby players, solidifying his place as one of the greatest fullbacks in rugby history.
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