Faddes becomes 5,000th Barbarian

Highlanders wing Matt Faddes will become the Barbarians’ 5,000th player when they face South Africa in a non-cap international at London’s Wembley Stadium on Saturday.
Barbarians founder WP Carpmael, who set the club up in 1890, is regarded as the first player to have worn the team’s well-known black-and-white hooped jersey.
Now New Zealander Faddes will join the Barbarians’ ranks in their 829th match.
He also fulfils another tradition in that the Barbarians always field at least one uncapped player in their side, with Faddes yet to play a full international for New Zealand.
Faddes, presented with a special shirt by former Barbarians players John Spencer (England) and Derek Quinnell (Wales), said: “It’s a tremendous honour to follow in the footsteps of so many great players who have played for such a special club.
“The Barbarians are known throughout the world for the way they play the game and what they?ve achieved over the years.
“All of us involved this weekend respect that and we want to play well and add to that history.?
Former Barbarians players include such rugby greats as Wales’ Gareth Edwards, Australia’s David Campese, South Africa’s Bryan Habana and New Zealand’s Richie McCaw, with their victory over the All Blacks in 1973 still one of rugby union’s most celebrated matches.