The Otago Daily Times counts down the 150 greatest moments in Otago sport.
No 52: Saxton captains the Kiwis (1945-46)
A diminutive halfback, he was the first New Zealander to perfect the dive pass. Had it not been for the outbreak of World War 2, Saxton would have captained the 1940 All Blacks in South Africa.
He rose to the rank of major with the 19th Armoured Regiment during the war and was chosen to captain and coach the 2nd NZEF team ("the Kiwis") which toured Britain, France and Germany.
The tour played a major role in restoring morale in post-war Britain. The Kiwis won 32, drew three and lost three of their 38 games but it was their style of rugby - Saxton practised the gospel he preached of possession, position and pace - which struck a chord in Europe.
Saxton played in all five "tests" - the only loss was to Scotland - and outside him at first five-eighth was his great friend, Fred Allen.
They later combined to coach and manage the 1967 All Blacks on their unbeaten tour of Britain and France.
Saxton died in 2001, at the age of 88, and more than 600 mourners attended his funeral at Carisbrook.
