David Duckham

From Free net encyclopedia

David Duckham (born June 28, 1946) was an English rugby union player who won 36 caps between 1969 and 1976. He played 36 games for England from 1969 to 1976, all on the left wing, and scored 10 tries.

Career

Born in Coventry, Warwickshire, David made his debut against Ireland and quickly established himself as one of England's best centres, playing alongside John Spencer. His game was marked by pace, swerves, sidesteps and an ability to wrong-foot his opponents, although this came at a time when the English team were struggling, especially against rivals Wales. In the late 1960s and thereafter he was played on the wing for his country and in 1971 was part of the successful British Lions tour to New Zealand. Encouraged by coach Carwyn Jones, he found an attacking freedom that was lacking in the English game. He scored 11 tries in his 16 games on tour.

He was the only English back in the 1973 Barbarians side that beat the All Blacks 23-11, after which he was given the nickname 'Dai' by the Welsh fans because he played like one of their own. Arguably his best performances in later years were overseas or for Coventry. He made his last appearance against Scotland at Murrayfield in 1976.

For his club, Coventry, he played 12 seasons from 1967 to 1979.

After Retirement

For his services to rugby David was awarded the MBE. He has also written an autobiography called Dai for England.