Rugby World Cup 2011
Muliaina reaches Test milestone
ESPNscrum Staff
October 9, 2011
New Zealand's Mils Muliaina prepares to take to the field for his 100th cap, New Zealand v Argentina, Rugby World Cup quarter-final, Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand, October 9, 2011
Muliaina prepares to take to the field in his 100th match © Getty Images
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Tributes have poured in for Mils Muliana after the fullback became the second man to reach 100 caps for the All Blacks.

Muliaina guided the team from his familiar position during the first-half of their 33-10 win over Argentina in the quarter-finals of the World Cup before leaving the field at half-time. Muliaina took his Test bow for the All Blacks against England back in 2003 and after skipper Richie McCaw reached the milestone against France a fortnight ago, Muliaina has followed in his footsteps.

Former All Blacks international and current New Zealand Rugby Union president Bryan Williams paid tribute to his fellow Samoan New Zealander saying: "I am delighted that Mils has achieved this honour. He has worn the All Blacks jersey with pride and commitment since making his debut in Wellington many years ago. He is an outstanding person, understandably popular both in New Zealand and his birth nation of Samoa."

Meanwhile NZRU board chairman Mike Eagle said: "To become an All Blacks centurion is a phenomenal accomplishment. To achieve it in a Rugby World Cup quarter-final on home soil is a momentous milestone, made even more special as it is at a ground that has witnessed many outstanding performances from Mils."

And NZRU chief executive Steve Tew continued the tributes saying: "In the last eight years Mils has proven himself as a world-class player. To achieve 100 Tests in modern, international rugby is testament to the commitment, skill and professionalism he exemplifies. I am delighted for Mils as he joins a very short honours list of players with such a record of competitive appearances."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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