And so, it begins. The Otago Daily Times has determined what it believes to be the 25 greatest players in the history of the All Blacks.
Our panel included journalists, broadcasters, coaches, administrators and former players.
The list will be revealed over the next five days, culminating in the unveiling of our ''Immortals'' on Saturday.
The same day, we will announce the winner of the Highlanders jersey and match tickets, awarded to the reader whose top 25 most closely matches the newspaper's.
No 25: Kel Tremain
Position: Flanker.
Era: 1959-68.
All Blacks: 86 matches (38 tests).
His story: Part of a great All Black team in the 1960s. Both quick and strong, Tremain was an unusually prolific try-scorer for a loose forward.
No 24: Ron Jarden
Position: Winger.
Era: 1951-56.
All Blacks: 37 matches (16 tests).
His story: Had plenty of pace, acceleration and instinct, and scored 35 tries for the All Blacks. Was also a very useful goal kicker.
No 23: Grant Fox
Position: First five-eighth.
Era: 1984-93.
All Blacks: 78 matches (46 tests).
His story: He rarely ran, and he was not a great tackler. But Fox was without parallel as a kicker, both tactically and for goal, and was a master strategist.
No 22: Billy Wallace
Position: Wing/fullback.
Era: 1903-08.
All Blacks: 51 matches (11 tests).
His story: One of the Originals, Wallace was as talented as he was versatile. Scored points for fun and had a great rugby brain.
No 21: Bruce Robertson
Position: Centre.
Era: 1972-81.
All Blacks: 102 matches (34 tests).
His story: A consistent and dangerous performer in the black jersey. Had good pace and could distribute with a sweet touch.
