Henry Paul, New Zealand rugby player and coach

Henry Paul (born 10 February 1974), affectionately known by his nickname "HP", stands as a celebrated figure in the world of rugby, distinguished as a rare dual-code international. This esteemed status signifies his exceptional skill and adaptability, having excelled at the highest levels in both professional rugby league and rugby union. Paul uniquely represented two different nations on the international stage: his birth country, New Zealand, in rugby league, and later England in both rugby union (XV-a-side) and rugby sevens, a testament to his remarkable talent and versatility across the codes.

Paul's illustrious career began to truly flourish in rugby league, primarily as a pivotal loose forward or stand-off (positions analogous to number 8 and fly-half in rugby union, crucial for playmaking and attacking strategies). He gained widespread acclaim during his tenure with the Bradford Bulls in the Super League, a period marked by significant team success and individual brilliance. It was with Bradford that Paul established himself as one of the game's most prolific and accurate goal-kickers. He still holds two remarkable Super League kicking records: an astonishing 178 goals in a single season for Bradford in 2001, a record that underscores his unparalleled consistency and contribution to points scoring; and the record for the most goals in a single match, converting 14 kicks during a game for Bradford in 2000. These records highlight his immense value to his team and his exceptional precision under pressure.

His transition to rugby union saw him embrace new challenges and excel in different roles, primarily as a dynamic centre, known for his attacking prowess and defensive strength, though he also showcased his playmaking abilities as a fly-half earlier in his union career. Paul’s move to union, a common pathway for high-profile league stars, was particularly successful, leading to his representation for England. He notably played for major Premiership clubs such as Gloucester Rugby and Harlequins, becoming a key figure in their respective campaigns. Demonstrating his exceptional kicking prowess, Henry Paul once held the prestigious world record for the most consecutive kicks on the field, a testament to his unerring accuracy and mental fortitude. While this particular record is now held by the legendary Welsh international Neil Jenkins, Paul's achievement cemented his reputation as one of the most reliable and precise kickers of his era.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Henry Paul hails from a notable sporting family. He is the brother of fellow former New Zealand international Robbie Hunter-Paul, who also enjoyed a distinguished career in rugby league, often playing alongside Henry at the Bradford Bulls, further cementing their family's legacy in the sport. In his personal life, Henry Paul married his long-term partner of 12 years, Philippa English, in July 2018.

Frequently Asked Questions about Henry Paul

What does it mean to be a "dual-code international"?
Being a dual-code international signifies an athlete who has played professional rugby at the highest international level in both rugby league and rugby union. This achievement is rare due to the distinct rules, strategies, and physical demands of each code, requiring immense adaptability and skill.
Which countries did Henry Paul represent internationally?
Henry Paul represented New Zealand in rugby league and later, after his transition, represented England in both rugby union (XV-a-side) and rugby sevens, making him a unique international player across codes and nations.
What Super League kicking records does Henry Paul still hold?
Henry Paul still holds the Super League record for the most goals kicked in a single season, achieving 178 for Bradford Bulls in 2001. He also holds the record for the most goals kicked in a single Super League match, converting 14 kicks for Bradford in 2000.
Who is Henry Paul's famous rugby-playing brother?
Henry Paul's brother is Robbie Hunter-Paul, also a highly respected former New Zealand international rugby league player. They famously played together during their successful tenure at the Bradford Bulls.
What positions did Henry Paul play in rugby league and rugby union?
In rugby league, Henry Paul primarily played as a loose forward and stand-off (equivalent to a loose forward and fly-half). In rugby union, he played predominantly as a centre, though he also featured as a fly-half earlier in his career.