Simply racking up a Test world record for appearances is not what gives All Blacks captain Richie McCaw satisfaction but rather proving he's been worthy of selection for the past 14 years.
McCaw will play his 141st Test for the All Blacks in the rugby championship decider against Australia tonight in Sydney.
He will join Ireland's Brian O'Driscoll as the most capped international player of all time.
McCaw made his debut against Ireland in Dublin in 2001, having played less than quarter of an hour of Super rugby.
Richie McCaw congratulates Chris Jack after scoring a try against Ireland in 2001. The match was McCaw's test debut. Photo: Photosport
Asked to reflect on the achievement McCaw was typically understated.
"I'm just happy I'm still around. Certainly proud I can still foot it after (all) these years and play well enough to be in the team,' he said.
"The one thing I have always said is that it's not just a case of racking up the numbers it's what you actually do when you're on the field so hopefully in these ones, in these numbers, I play as well as I ever have."
McCaw feels taking a more relaxed approach and making sure he's still enjoying the game has also helped reinvigorate him.
Richie McCaw happy to be still on the scene Photo: PHOTOSPORT
There were question marks over his performances during the Super Rugby competition but he has played well in the three Test wins over Samoa, Argentina and South Africa.
McCaw concedes he was possibly trying too hard earlier in the season.
"Sometimes you put a lot of pressure on yourself to perform and sometimes that can work against you," he said.
"During Super rugby I think I was trying as hard as I have ever tried and perhaps it didn't flow as easily and our team (Crusaders) didn't do so well but I think towardst he latter half (of the competition) I relaxed a bit and went out and played with a bit less weight on my shoulders... and made it a bit easier," said McCaw.
