Rugby Union Books

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Book SynopsisA collection of in-depth interviews from one of Wales'' best rugby journalists, looking back on the careers of 26 of Welsh rugby''s finest players.

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE TELEGRAPH RUGBY BOOK OF THE YEARThe truth about being a rugby player from the horsey's mouth.This book is not just about how a psychiatrist called Humphrey helped me get back on my horse and clippity-clop all the way to the World Cup semi-final in Japan. It's the story of how a fat kid who had to live up to the nickname Psycho grew up to play and party for over a decade with rugby's greatest pros and live weird and wonderful moments both in and out of the scrum. That's why I'm letting you read my diary on my weirdest days. You never know what you're going to get with me. From being locked in a police cell to singing Adele on Jonathan Ross (I'll let you decide which is worse), being kissed by a murderer on the number 51 bus to drug tests where clipboard-wielding men hover inches away from my naked genitalia, melting opponents in rucks, winning tackles, and generally losing blood, sweat and ears in the name of the great sport of rugby. This is how (not) to be a rugby player.Trade ReviewVery funny * The Guardian *A rollicking book covering everything from rituals to red mist, nudity to nicknames * Rubgy World *

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Book SynopsisSiya''s rise from humble beginnings to lifting that World Cup trophy is the stuff of fairytales.' MARCUS RASHFORDSiya Kolisi is a warrior on the field and an inspiration off it. This book is an extraordinary reminder of what can be achieved with inner belief and an indefatigable spirit.' JAY SHETTY''Siya''s story is well documented, and I am so impressed by the way he conducts himself. As the captain of his team and as a statesman he is measured and thoughtful. He is a leader in every way. An inspiration to a dynamic South African nation.'' EDDIE JONESFew people embody the tenacity of what the New South Africa stands for, like Siya does. His story mirrors the nations'; in its trials and tribulations and also in it's triumph against all odds. This is a real life heroes journey.' TREVOR NOAHThere is no doubt Siya has made a significant impact on World rugby, especially within South African rugby. [He] is passionate about changing people''s lives for the better and uses his position and status to do that.' MARO ITOJEBrilliant' THE TIMESMoving' THE GUARDIANHis truth. His story. In his words.There have been many comments made and books written about Siya Kolisi, captain of the Springboks, and the first black man to lead his country in over 128 years of South African rugby.But now, for the very first time, Siya Kolisi shares his story in an extraordinarily intimate memoir, charting his journey from being born into the impoverished Zwide township, to leading his proud nation to an astonishing victory at the Rugby World Cup in 2019.However, Rise is not simply a chronology of matches played and games won; it is an exploration of a man's race and his faith, a masterclass in attaining a positive mindset, and an inspirational reminder that it is possible to defy the odds, no matter how they are stacked against you.In 2020, partly in response to the pandemic, Siya and his wife, Rachel, launched The Kolisi Foundation, providing personal protective equipment to healthcare workers and delivering food parcels throughout South Africa.The title Rise is inspired by Siya's mother Phakama which translates to the book's name, as well as a celebration of his Xhosa heritage.Trade Review ‘Siya's rise from humble beginnings to lifting that World Cup trophy is the stuff of fairytales’ MARCUS RASHFORD 'Siya's story is well documented, and I am so impressed by the way he conducts himself. As the captain of his team and as a statesman he is measured and thoughtful. He is a leader in every way. An inspiration to a dynamic South African nation.' EDDIE JONES ‘Siya Kolisi is a warrior on the field and an inspiration off it. This book is an extraordinary reminder of what can be achieved with inner belief and an indefatigable spirit.’ JAY SHETTY ‘Siya embodies so much of what makes the South African spirit extraordinary – incredible resilience, strength, humanity and determination in the face of challenges. He is the type of exceptional human that makes me proud to be his fellow South African.’ CHARLIZE THERON ‘Few people embody the tenacity of what the New South Africa stands for, like Siya does. His story mirrors the nations’; in its trials and tribulations and also in it’s triumph against all odds. This is a real life heroes journey.’ TREVOR NOAH ‘There is no doubt Siya has made a significant impact on World rugby, especially within South African rugby. Being the first Black player to captain the Springboks is an incredible achievement and I am sure he has had to navigate tricky waters both personally and publicly in carrying out that task. Siya is passionate about changing people's lives for the better and uses his position and status to do that.’ MARO ITOJE ‘Brilliant’ THE TIMES ‘Moving’ THE GUARDIAN

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Book SynopsisArthur Gould is the definitive biography of the record-breaking Welsh international player who is widely acknowledged as the first superstar of rugby. Such was his fame and renown, that upon his tragic, early death in 1919, aged just 54, Gould's funeral in Newport was reported as the biggest Wales had ever seen. Nicknamed 'Monkey' due to his childhood fondness for climbing trees, Gould played the majority of his club rugby for Newport RFC and won a then-record 27 Welsh caps; 25 of which were at centre (a record only bettered by Steve Fenwick in 1980); and captained his country 18 times (a record only beaten in 1994 by Ieuan Evans). A true sporting sensation, when he retired in 1899 Gould had played more first-class matches and scored more tries and drop goals than any other player. Gould's superstar status was illustrated late in his career when a testimonial appeal received widespread public support and resulted in the Scottish and Irish unions cancelling their fixtures with Wales in protest at the apparent breach of the game's strict amateur ethos. The controversy deepened when the Welsh Football Union (now the WRU) stood firmly behind their iconic player and withdrew from the International Rugby Board. Fearing that lucrative fixtures with Welsh clubs might be lost and that Wales might join forces with the newly established Northern Union of professional rugby, England's Rugby Football Union brokered a 'one-off' dispensation which enabled Gould to benefit from the testimonial while retaining his amateur status, and ensured that international fixtures were resumed. Comprehensively researched and written by acclaimed rugby historian, Gwyn Prescott, with the full support and encouragement of the Gould family, Arthur Gould - Rugby's First Superstar includes over 100 illustrations and will be enjoyed by all who love rugby and treasure its sporting and cultural heritage.Trade Review'We may never have seen him play but there is no doubt that those who did regarded Arthur Gould as one of the greatest sportsmen ever to wear the red shirt of Wales. His fame extended beyond the rugby field too and it is no exaggeration to describe him as the game's first superstar. This book is a fitting tribute to Gould. Intelligent, lively and intriguing, it matches its subject in its verve. Prescott's research is meticulous and he has done Gould and the histories of rugby and Wales itself proud.' Prof Martin Johnes; 'In vividly chronicling the life of rugby's first superstar, Gwyn Prescott has combined impeccable scholarship with an assured readability to produce a terrific book that enthrallingly evokes the world in which Welsh rugby union grew from infancy towards international importance and produced, in Arthur Gould's Newport, its first great club.' Huw Richards; 'The Gould family are delighted that the complete and definitive story of Arthur's colourful life and illustrious rugby career has at last been written, and in such a brilliant manner by Gwyn Prescott.' Gareth Harvey (Great-Great-Nephew of Arthur Gould)Table of ContentsIntroduction: "Arthur Gould Stands Alone" 1. A Sequence of Chance Events 2. Bob Leads the Way 3. "Monk" Breaks Through 4. History at Crown Flatt 5. Back in the "War Paint" 6. "Newport's Football King" 7. A Testimonial for a Football Prodigy 8. The Testimonial Comes Home 9. Extra Time Afterword Gould Brothers' International Matches & Scoring Record Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe glory days of Welsh rugby seem long ago now. Mortifying defeats, threatened strike action, institutionalised sexism, racism and homophobia in the WRU, bad financial management – this book examines key events from the 1980s to today which have brought Welsh rugby to its present crisis.

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Book SynopsisThe Rugby Almanack is the world’s longest running rugby book of record. It was first published in 1935 to cover the previous season’s first-class rugby in New Zealand. Since then it has been published uninterrupted (apart from two combined issues during World War II). Now in its 85th edition, the 2021 Rugby Almanack records another huge year, including the All Blacks in the Rugby Championship and the Bledisloe Cup, plus Women’s Rugby, Super Rugby, Mitre 10 Cup and Mitre 10 Championship and a full summary of sevens rugby.

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Book SynopsisThe laws of rugby are as extensive as they are confusing, their nuances and interpretations argued over relentlessly by rugby fans around the world and virtually impenetrable to those who are new to the game. In an effort to provide some much-needed clarity, Paul Williams takes an irreverent, hilarious, p*ss-taking tour through the labyrinth that is rugby's rule book – or, for the pedantic, rugby’s law book. Hilarious, off-beat and (surprisingly) insightful, this is the perfect gift for rugby fans all around the world.

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Book SynopsisThe Rugby Almanack is the world's longest running rugby book of record. It was first published in 1935 to cover the previous season's first-class rugby in New Zealand.

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Book SynopsisThe definitive account of sport's concussion crisis, how its 'dirty secret' was finally made public and what sport must now do to save itself.

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Book SynopsisJames Hook has spent 14 years as a professional rugby player, plying his trade for the Ospreys, Perpignan and Gloucester. He has won 81 caps for Wales, which include two World Cup campaigns, a Six Nations Grand Slam and he toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2009. He lives in Swansea.David Brayley is an author and sportswriter from Swansea. He has written two autobiographies for elite sportsmen, cricketer Tony Cottey and Wales international football captain, Ashley Williams, two official books for Swansea City and a cycling novel, Champion of Champions.Trade Review'James Hook has nailed it. A book packed with positive messages - what young rugby fans have been waiting for' -- Alan Pearey * Rugby World *'The perfect book for any parent to read with their kids. I absolutely loved it!' -- Sam Warburton, Wales and the British and Irish Lions'This book is a go-to every night before bed with my rugby-adoring sons. A great read for young and old' -- Greg Laidlaw'A great read. The perfect book to encourage kids to follow their rugby dreams' -- Tommy Bowe'Jimmy Joseph is one to watch ... I can't wait to read more' -- Tom Palmer

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Book SynopsisBook 9 in the acclaimed Rugby Spirit seriesEoin's been promoted early to the Senior Cup team where he's the youngest ever player and he's not sure if he's ready for it.A discovery from the earliest days of Irish rugby brings more ghostly encounters for Eoin and leads him and his friends to tackle a series of crimes at the national stadium.

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Book SynopsisTHE MOST SUCCESSFUL CAPTAIN IN WORLD RUGBY HISTORY, IN HIS OWN WORDSRichie McCaw, Rugby World Cup winning captain and the New Zealand All Black's most capped player of all time, is unquestionably the greatest player of his generation. He is arguably the most talented player of all time.In his bestselling autobiography, McCaw talks with brutal honesty about the roots of his family life that defined his character and how it gave him the strength to emerge from the lowest moment in his career to lift the Webb Ellis Cup, and become the most successful captain world rugby has ever seen.As the first captain to successfully defend the World Cup, McCaw has set the standard of what a professional rugby player should be. Hugely popular and respected, his sheer presence means that he is a natural leader both on and off the pitch and his story is not just a brutal account of life on the front line, but an exhilarating portrait of modern rugby.Trade Review‘His story is not just a brutal account of life on the front line, but an exhilarating portrait of modern rugby.’'McCaw's book offers an intriguing and unflinching insight into leading the All Blacks in a home World Cup' ‘Beautifully written. Sports bios are usually droll affairs. This one is different.’'McCaw's book offers an intriguing and unflinching insight into leading the All Blacks in a home World Cup'‘Thanks to one of the finer rugby brains of all time and some excellent wording from co-writer Greg McGee, a riveting rugby read it most definitely is.’ ‘Beautifully written. Sports bios are usually droll affairs. This one is different.’‘His story is not just a brutal account of life on the front line, but an exhilarating portrait of modern rugby.’

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Book Synopsis'The most eccentric golf book ever' Sports and Leisure Magazine Golf's Strangest Rounds is an absorbing collection of bizarre tales from the lengthy annals of the sport’s history. There are stories of tragedy, eccentricity, tactical slipups and ones that defy categorization altogether – meet ‘Mysterious Montague’, for example, of the world’s best golfers but a man who refused ever to compete in a tournament. You’ll find plenty of golfing greats here – Gene Sarazen, Chip Beck, Greg Norman, Nick Faldo – all of whom have played their parts in irrational finishes, record rounds and famous freak shots. The tales within these pages are bizarre, fascinating, hilarious and, most importantly, true. This brand new edition, redesigned in splendid hardback for 2018, is the perfect gift for any golf fanatic. Word count: 45,000

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Book SynopsisJohn Devereux burst into rugby's big-time as a 19-year-old student when he terrorised a Cardiff team packed with Lions and Wales stars for his South Glam Institute side in a Welsh Cup tie. His powerful piston-pump hand-off saw him nicknamed the 'Dalek' and two months later, in January 1986, he was making his Wales debut against England. He was one of the stars of the 1987 union World Cup as Wales finished third, the nation's highest ever position in the tournament, and appeared for the British and Irish Lions before being lured to rugby league by a big-money offer exceeding GBP350,000. Devereux was a huge hit for Widnes, playing 185 games and scoring 120 tries, and Manly Sea Eagles in Australia, and became a dual-code international - scoring six tries in eight games for Great Britain, and three tries in 12 games for Wales RL. He was also the last Wales union international to appear in a RL World Cup final when he lined up for Great Britain against Australia at Wembley in 1993. Held in the highest regard by former teammates and opponents alike, John Devereux is revered by followers of rugby league and rugby union and, in his official biography, Devs, tells the fascinating story of his life in rugby.Trade Review‘Devs was big, explosive, fit and full of enthusiasm. You could see he could become something special.’ Derek Quinnell; ‘John is right up there when it comes to Welsh players making a mark on the Rugby World Cup’ Tony Gray; ‘It’s not easy to make the transition from union to league but Devs did it, and more.’ Jonathan Davies; ‘John was, without a doubt, one of the finest players to ever wear the Widnes jersey.’ Jim Mills; ‘He was a player you didn’t just play to, you also played off him.’ Sir Ian McGeechanTable of ContentsForeword by Jonathan Davies 1. 'Is There a John Devereux here?' 2. Garw Valley Boy 3. Twickenham Calling 4. Debut 5. The Brawl to End Them All 6. Accidents Will Happen 7. The Inaugural Rugby World Cup 8. The Talk of Wales 9. Lion 10. Going North 11. Surfing the Waves with Widnes 12. Wales RL 13. Tearful World Cup Final 14. Implosion at Widnes 15. Maninga and Manly 16. Wales and Samoa Go To War 17. The Toughest Fight of My Life 18. Back to Rugby Union 19. Wales, Henry and Granny-Gate 20. The Green Green Grass of Home 21. 2000 RL World Cup 22. End of the Rugby Road Career Statistics Index

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the 2024 Illustrated Sports Book of the YearLaunched as rugby hit fever pitch at the 2023 World Cup, Remarkable Rugby Grounds is the perfect title for the passionate rugby fan who will be astonished at the worldwide reach of their favourite game.Remarkable Rugby Grounds continues the blend of earlier Remarkables' by mixing some of the world's cathedrals of rugby with some of the quirky club grounds and local pitches set in beautiful locations.We travel Around the World in 80 pitches' with grounds in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Hong Kong, Japan, Alaska, Argentina, Romania, along with the Six Nations venues.Apart from Aviva Stadium/Lansdowne Road in Dublin (which has a train running beneath the grandstand), the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Murrayfield and Twickenham, there are the genteel splendours of Bath's Recreation Ground nestling alongside the River Avon or the historic home of Richmond FC one of the founding clubs of English rugby.Featuring 80 of the Trade Review‘While cricket and football stadiums have long been revered and celebrated, rugby grounds haven’t been given quite the same level of adulation – until now. Ryan Herman seeks to redress the sporting imbalance, selecting 80 rugby grounds to fawn over.’ — Pitch Magazine ‘A beautiful collection of some of the most magnificent places to watch and play rugby.’— Phil Caplan, TALKSPORT ‘A resplendent coffee-table book.’— RugbyWorld

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Book SynopsisThe extraordinary story of John Kendall-Carpenter â captain of the England rugby team, educationalist and godfather to the Rugby World Cup.

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Book Synopsis All the fun of Pavilion’s bestselling Strangest series, now in quiz form! Test your rugby knowledge with this handy quiz book, packed with fun and challenging quiz questions based around the weirdest events from more than a century of rugby history. Quiz categories include: Famous Firsts and Lasts Trophy Cabinet Unexpected Interruptions Men and Women Behaving Badly Political Connections The Numbers Game Family Ties Never Mind the Weather Whether you're testing your friends, practising for pub quizzes or just reading it in an armchair, this book will take your rugby knowledge to a whole new level. Word count: 30,000 words.

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Book SynopsisRassie Erasmus is the Head Coach of the South African Rugby Union team and Director of Rugby, South Africa. Erasmus is well known for his outspoken opinions and tactical nous. Under his leadership, the Springboks won the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, ending a 12-year championship drought, and successfully defended the title at the 2023 tournament in France. Erasmus has also had a successful coaching career at club level in both South Africa and Ireland. He was the head coach of Munster Rugby for several years, and during his tenure, the team reached two European Champions Cup finals.As a player, he was a leading flanker for South Africa as well as several club teams throughout his career, including Free State Cheetahs, Western Province, and Munster Rugby in Ireland. He retired from playing in 2010, and since then, he has dedicated himself to coaching. Rassie: Stories of Life and Rugby is his first book.

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Book SynopsisA hilarious and, at times, moving and soul-searching account of rugby union’s rollercoaster days in the 1990s, told through the eyes of a player who saw it all as the sport lurched shambolically from the crazy final days of amateurism into the professional era.Martin Bayfield has a story to tell. Indeed, some might describe it as a very tall story. Standing at 6ft 10ins, the former England and British and Irish Lions second row remains one of the tallest players ever to have played international rugby, and his immense physical stature made him one of the most destructive forwards in the world game. He played for England during one of the most successful eras in English rugby, winning two Grand Slams alongside legendary players such as Will Carling, Jeremy Guscott, Brian Moore and Rory Underwood. His international heyday came at a seminal moment for rugby union when, almost overnight, it was transformed from a noble minority sport to

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Book Synopsis'An impassioned tour around France which is best enjoyed with a bottle of red ... or two.' The Sunday Times'I've known Peter for some years and I'm sure you will enjoy his personal journey to the heart of rugby in this superb country.' Dan Carter, Former All Black and Rugby World Cup winner'Bills' wondrous travelogue features so many great tales from the mouths of legends.' Irish Independent'I really enjoyed this book ... A great memoir of France and its people through the eyes of rugby.' Michael Lynagh, TV analyst and Australian Rugby World Cup winner'Wonderful! This is a great read. I simply loved it and I am sure that many others will also.' Bob Dwyer, Australian World Cup winning coach 1991From French rugby's origins in Le Havre to the Catalan coast, acclaimed rugby writer Peter Bills travels the length and breadth of France, visiting the big cities and regional heartlands of the game, to reveal a country whose deep love of rugby has created a culture and playing style like no other.Featuring exclusive interviews with many of the greatest international players to have played club rugby in France, from Ronan O'Gara to Dan Carter, as well as French legends of the sport, from Serge Blanco and Jean-Pierre Rives to Antoine Dupont, Le Coq brings to life the passion, colour, excitement, characters, anecdotes, locations and great moments of French rugby's near 150 years of existence.Former French Grand Slam captain Jacques Fouroux talked of 'Rugby; the game, the life'. This book will show you exactly what he meant.Trade ReviewAn impassioned tour around France which is best enjoyed with a bottle of red or two ... Part history lesson, part travelogue, part paean, part autobiography, part restaurant guide and cookbook ... What is undeniable is Bills's passion for all things French, and the nation's rugby most of all ... It's full of the joys of France and its rugby as seen by an enthusiast. Bills loves his subject and was never going to find anything beyond delight within. -- Martin Samuel * The Sunday Times *It is at once a journey to the heart of the French club forces, old and new, as well as a gastronomic odyssey; the stories, and wine, rarely stop flowing as [Bills] visits the four corners of this intoxicating land ... All the greats are here, from Pierre Villepreux to Serge Blanco, as well as some familiar visitors, like former Ireland coach Joe Schmidt, defending European champion coach Ronan O'Gara and current French defence supremo Shaun Edwards ... Bills' wondrous travelogue features so many great tales from the mouths of legends * Irish Independent *Table of Contentsi: Foreword by Dan Carter ii: Prologue 1: The Ruggers of HAC: Le Havre-Paris 2: City of Mayhem: Paris 3: The Journey South: Paris-Bourges-Vichy-Clermont-Ferrand 4: The Lost Corridor: Strasbourg-Lille-Besançon-Dijon-Mâcon-La Voulte-sur-Rhône-Cavaillon-Nice 5: A Day at The Lake: Sète 6: A Litany of Tragedies: Sète-Béziers 7: Split Personalities: A small town, a quiet South of France café. For reflection on the violence... 8: The Elixir of Life... and a Force of Nature: Béziers-Narbonne 9: La Ville Rose: Narbonne-Castelnaudary-Toulouse-Auch 10: Peter Pan and The Legend of Lourdes: Auch-Lourdes-Bagnères-de-Bigorre 11: The Man Who Put Men To Sleep: Biarritz-Bayonne-Perpignan 12: Way Out West: Mont-de-Marsan-La Rochelle 13: A Golden Era: Toulouse-Castres-Narbonne-Perpignan 14: The Rugby-Loving Abbot: Clermont Auvergne-Toulouse-Albi-La Rochelle iii: Acknowledgements iv: Bibliography

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Donncha O'Callaghan is one of Ireland's leading international rugby players, and a stalwart of the Munster side. He was a key figure in the Irish team which won the IRB 6 Nations Grand Slam in 2009, and has won two Heineken Cup medals and two Magners League titles with Munster. But that success did not come easy. For such a well known player with a larger-than-life reputation, his long battle to make a breakthrough at the highest level is largely unknown. In this honest and revealing autobiography, Donncha talks in detail about the personal setbacks and disappointments at Munster and the unconventional ways he dealt with the frustration of not making the team for four of five years in his early 20s.He had a parallel experience with Ireland where it took him nearly six years to get from fringe squad member to established first choice player. Here he talks candidly about how he brought discipline to his game, and about his relationships with the coaches who had overlooked him and the second row rivals who had kept him on the bench.Donncha talks also with great warmth about a hectic childhood that was shaped by the death of his father when he was only six years old. One of the heroes of his story is his mother Marie who showed incredible strength and resourcefulness to rear a family of five on her own.Often deservedly regarded as 'the joker in the pack', what is often less well known is the serious attitude and intensely professional approach Donncha brings to his rugby. Joking Apart gives the full picture, showing sides of the man that will be unfamiliar to followers of Irish rugby and will surprise the reader.

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Book Synopsis''A century of sporting and human historydistilled with warmth and wisdom'' Mark Palmer, The TimesIn 1925, Scotland played their first ever game at Murrayfield Stadium. They opened this new home with a landmark result, defeating England with a late drop-goal to secure their first Grand Slam title. This was the first in a long line of epic encounters to have taken place on that hallowed ground over the next century.In This is Murrayfield, celebrated rugby writers Peter Burns and Rob Robertson curate 100 of the most memorable, significant and sometimes quirky fixtures to have been played at Murrayfield over the last 100 years. Gorgeously illustrated with black and white and colour photography throughout, this is an insightful, fun and fascinating record of some of the greatest moments in Scottish rugby history.

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Book SynopsisThe must-have companion to the greatest event in world rugby, the Rugby World Cup France 2023.Containing everything rugby fans will need to enjoy the World Cup, this official guide is packed with images, profiles, previews and charts, making it essential reading for any fan and the perfect companion to all of the tournament action.Contents include:• Team-by-team profiles • Star player profiles • A guide to every venue • Fill-in tournament progress chart • History of the Rugby World Cup • Rugby World Cup records • Qualification round-upAnd much, much more besides.Table of ContentsIntroduction • Welcome to France • The Road to France • Meet The Teams (Pool A, Pool B, Pool C, Pool D) • The Stars to Watch • Rugby World Cup History • Rugby World Cup Records • RWC 2023 Tournament Chart.

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Book SynopsisJohnny Sexton - the man who pulled the strings for the Lions - gives an intimate insight into the rugby life in Becoming a Lion.With three Heineken Cups and one British and Irish Lions tour victory under his belt, Johnny Sexton is by some distance the leading fly-half in the northern hemisphere. Over the course of the Lions'' first victorious Test series in sixteen years, Sexton was the man pulling the strings. His try in the third test was the decisive blow, and his joyous celebrations after scoring were echoed in homes across Britain and Ireland.Becoming a Lion is an intimate portrait of life at the highest levels of the professional game - at Leinster, with Ireland, and on tour with the Lions.''Bracing and fascinating in equal measure'' Malachy Clerkin, Irish Times''Riveting ... Opens a remarkable window into the stresses, hurts and insecurities of a professional life in rugby'' Vincent Hogan, Irish Independent''Captures all the jagged edges that make Sexton one of Irish sport''s most compelling characters'' Sunday Times''Sets a great benchmark for sports autobiographies, given that it is so honest'' Matt Cooper, Today FM''Engrossing'' Rugby World Ireland''If you crave an insight into the life of a professional rugby player ... Becoming a Lion is a must'' Donal Lenihan, Irish Examiner''Intensely revealing'' Irish Daily MailTrade ReviewRiveting ... Opens a remarkable window into the stresses, hurts and insecurities of a professional life in rugby -- Vincent Hogan * Irish Independent *Bracing and fascinating in equal measure -- Malachy Clerkin * Irish Times *It really sets for a great benchmark for sports autobiographies, given that it is so honest -- Matt Cooper * Today FM *Captures all the jagged edges that make Sexton one of Irish sport's most compelling characters * Sunday Times *Engrossing * Rugby World Ireland *If you crave an insight into the life of a professional rugby player ... Becoming a Lion is a must -- Donal Lenihan * Irish Examiner *Intensely revealing * Irish Daily Mail *

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Book Synopsis'A genuine presence on the field, Owen refereed with the perfect balance of respect and authority' Keith Wood'Highly respected with vast experience and knowledge, Owen Doyle contributed hugely to the world of rugby refereeing, both on and off the field' Nigel Owens'Owen Doyle was a highly respected referee who officiated matches with passion, commitment, knowledge and, occasionally, some great humour' Will CarlingWith a foreword by Donal Lenihan.Owen Doyle is an Irish Times columnist and former Irish rugby Test match referee. Here in his frank, revealing and often humorous memoir, The Ref's Call, he gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the high-pressured world of international rugby.From the processes involved in becoming a referee, to officiating in the Five Nations, touring Internationals and a World Cup, Doyle takes us through the most memorable matches of his career and how, following his retirement, he became instrumental in coaching the most successful generation of referees in the IRFU's history.Covering over forty years of rugby, and written in his own inimitable style, Doyle looks at the challenges facing modern rugby, particularly the issues of concussion and dementia, to give a fascinating insight into the great game, told from a unique perspective.

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Book SynopsisBath, founded in 1865, rank among the oldest established rugby clubs in England, yet not for decades could they shake off their poor-relation status in the shadows of West Country rivals Bristol and Gloucester. Indeed, to do so required something approaching a miracle. But miracles do not ''just'' happen, they happen for a reason, or as in Bath''s case for a number of reasons. Hurdles for Bath to jump? Oh yes, plenty. Indeed, how does one even begin to define a club that by 1900 had already produced three England internationals and yet by season 1905-6 with a meagre 7 wins from 33 matches played came near to being folded-up. And who, in that same season of near despair, would ever have contemplated the transformation that would later lead Bath in season 1995-6 to be chosen to carry the Union colours against Rugby League giants Wigan (first under League rules, then Union rules) to end a century of divide between the two codes. Yet chosen Bath were!Of course, it did not happen overnight, but as the decades passed, so too did the pieces of the jigsaw slowly come together, culminating with a team (nay teams) that rose to the forefront of English (indeed British) rugby. Moreover, over the decades the friendly nature of the club and its supporters has never changed, as they remain the same rugby family they always were. And that is a fascinating part of their story, one that includes the closeness of the bondwith their parent city, their cherished home on ''the Rec'' (its original stands, now rebuilt, bombed to pieces in World War Two) and ''Oh,'' that banter and humour experienced on match-days.This 2nd edition of ''Bath the Enigma'' relates their story with an abridged version of the original 1st edition from 1865-2015, plus the five seasons which have followed, culminating with the unprecedented season of 2019/20, a season of near unparalleled difficulties for rugby, sport in general and Bath. A Review of season 2020/21 is added.In accordance with the author''s wishes all royalties from this book go direct to the Bath Rugby Foundation Charity.

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Book SynopsisThe story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, 'Half Time', to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019.Trade ReviewThe story of the second half of Nigel's career as one of the most famous referees in World Rugby, and one of only two Welsh refs ever to officiate at a Rugby World Cup Final. With his contract with the Welsh Rugby Union having come to an end in 2020, he is free to reveal all about his career since his previous autobiography, Half Time, to speak his mind on various issues and to give the full story of his last Rugby World Cup in 2019. -- Publisher: Y Lolfa

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Book SynopsisFrom the founding of Ireland's first national team in 1875 to the Grand Slam winners of today.

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Book Synopsis''He''s a great coach. He lives and breathes the game. There''s nothing he doesn''t know'' Brian O''Driscoll''The best coach Irish rugby - arguably Irish sport - has ever had'' Malachy Clerkin, Irish TimesIn the autumn of 2010, a little-known New Zealander called Joe Schmidt took over as head coach at Leinster. He had never been in charge of a professional team. After Leinster lost three of their first four games, a prominent Irish rugby pundit speculated that Schmidt had ''lost the dressing room''.Nine years on, Joe Schmidt has stepped down as Ireland coach having achieved success on a scale never before seen in Irish rugby. Two Heineken Cups in three seasons with Leinster. Three Six Nations championships in six seasons with Ireland, including the Grand Slam in 2018. And a host of firsts: the first Irish victory in South Africa; the first Irish defeat of the All Blacks, and then a second; and Ireland''s first number 1 world ranking.Along the way, Schmidt became a byword for precision and focus in coaching, remarkable attention to detail and the highest of standards. But who is Joe Schmidt? In Ordinary Joe, Schmidt tells the story of his life and influences: the experiences and management ideas that made him the coach, and the man, that he is today. And his diaries of the 2018 Grand Slam and the 2019 Rugby World Cup provide a brilliantly intimate insight into the stresses and joys of coaching a national team in victory and defeat.From the small towns in New Zealand''s North Island where he played barefoot rugby and jostled around the dinner table with seven siblings, to the training grounds and video rooms where he consistently kept his teams a step ahead of the opposition, Ordinary Joe reveals an ordinary man who has helped his teams to achieve extraordinary things.''Rugby obsessives and amateur coaches will revel in the insight that Schmidt offers into his training methods, tactics and preparation ... Full of insight, emotion and considered analysis'' Irish Daily Mail''An insight into the fascinating personality of the man who has been the single most influential figure in Irish rugby over the last decade'' Irish Times''He is clearly more than an ordinary coach, the winning of two Heinekens, beating New Zealand twice, the 2018 Grand Slam and reaching no.1 in the World Rankings are positive brushstrokes, marking Irish rugby for ever ... A rocky read about exceptional deeds, told in extraordinary fashion'' Irish Daily Star''Undoubtedly the greatest coach in Irish rugby history'' Daily TelegraphTrade ReviewRugby obsessives and amateur coaches will revel in the insight that Schmidt offers into his training methods, tactics and preparation ... Full of insight, emotion and considered analysis * Irish Daily Mail *An insight into the fascinating personality of the man who has been the single most influential figure in Irish rugby over the last decade * Irish Times *He is clearly more than an ordinary coach, the winning of two Heinekens, beating New Zealand twice, the 2018 Grand Slam and reaching no.1 in the World Rankings are positive brushstrokes, marking Irish rugby for ever ... A rocky read about exceptional deeds, told in extraordinary fashion * Irish Daily Star *Undoubtedly the greatest coach in Irish rugby history * Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisThis paperback edition has been fully updated to include the 2013 Six Nations and the British and Irish Lions Tour.What does rugby mean to Wales? Where does the heart of Welsh rugby lie? In Calon, Owen Sheers takes a personal journey into a sport that defines a nation. Drawing on interviews and unprecedented access with players and WRU coaching staff, Calon presents an intimate portrait of a national team in the very best tradition of literary sports writing. At the 2011 Rugby World Cup a young Welsh side captained by the 22-year-old Sam Warburton, captured the imagination of the rugby-watching world. Exhibiting the grit and brilliance of generations past, an ill-fated semi-final ended in heartbreak. But a fledgling squad playing with the familiarity of brothers had sent out an electrifying message of hope: could this be a third golden generation of Welsh rugby? It was with this question hanging in the air that Owen Sheers took up his position as Writer in Residence for the Welsh Rugby Union. Calon is the document of a year spent at the heart of Welsh rugby; the inside story of a 6 Nations campaign that galvanised a nation and ended in Grand Slam success for the third time in 8 years.

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Book SynopsisAs a Premiership, World Cup and Grand Slam winner, no one better embodies the charisma and the colour of English rugbys greatest era than Lawrence Dallaglio. He has some story to tell, not just of the formidable exploits on the field, but an extraordinary life off it. His only sister, Francesca, was the youngest to perish in the Marchioness disaster and her death at 19 remains the great sadness of his life. In addition to this and his much-talked about England exploits, he also led his club Wasps to the summit of European rugby, winning two Heineken Cups and three consecutive English Premiership titles. Full of drama, controversy and great sadness, Lawrence Dallaglios story the last of the great World Cup heroes is the one every rugby fan has been waiting to read.Trade Review'Uncontrollably frank...a terrific book' * Daily Telegraph *'Dallaglio, as befits his hardman persona, takes no prisoners' * Guardian *'One of the best autobiographies of the year... beautifully written' * Daily Telegraph *'It's top' * Jeremy Clarkson, Top Gear *'Never less than compelling' * Mariella Frostrup, The Book Show *'By no means just for rugby heads' * Evening Standard *'An engaging tale' * Daily Express *'lucid, detailed and frank' * The Times *'Conveyed with the right balance of truth and delicacy: there is nothing prurient, yet the emotional passages are extremely moving, which is not something you can say about many rugby books' * Daily Telegraph *'The story of a true English sporting hero, albeit a flawed one for whom tragedy as well as disgrace has been a companion. Pretty much everything is confronted head on, exactly as Dallaglio played, indeed plays' * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE TELEGRAPH SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR 2019''Brutally honest . . . A moving, candid tale of a coach taking the plunge with a rugby ball as his only buoyancy aid'' DAILY EXPRESS''An engrossing account of a remarkable story'' EVENING STANDARD''An excellent read covering a brilliant journey'' Sir Clive WoodwardIt is late summer 2013. Ben Ryan, a red-haired, 40-something, spectacle-wearing Englishman, is given 20 minutes to decide whether he wants to coach Fiji''s rugby sevens team, with the aim of taking them to the nation''s first-ever Olympic medal. He has never been to Fiji. There has been no discussion of contracts or salary. But he knows that no one plays rugby like the men from these isolated Pacific islands, just as no one plays football like the kids from the Brazilian favelas, or no one runs as fast as the boys and girls from Jamaica''s boondocks. He knows too that no other rugby nation has so little - no monTrade ReviewYou'll struggle to read a more compelling rugby story than this . . . heartily recommendedAn excellent read covering a brilliant journeyOne of the all-time great sporting tales . . . Good things happen to good peopleSevens Heaven by Ben Ryan is such a special book * Guardian, Best Sports Books of the Year *Brutally honest . . . A moving, candid tale of a coach taking the plunge with a rugby ball as his only buoyancy aid * Daily Express *An engrossing account of a remarkable story * Evening Standard *So many beautiful, provocative postcard descriptions of Fiji alongside fascinating, honest insights and humble lessons and truthsSevens Heaven, the story of how English coach Ben Ryan took the Fiji sevens side to Olympic gold, is the best rugby book I've ever read (I don't say that lightly) and as good as any sports book, from Mailer to Plimpton to Hauser, I've encountered in the almost sixty years since I got a Terry McLean '59 Lions tour book for Christmas. It's so good because it reads at times like a noir novel, and is stunningly open and honest. We know how the rugby ended, but Ryan's book is so gripping to tell you any other plot twists might spoil it for youWe always knew a book by Ben Ryan wouldn't be dull, but Sevens Heaven surpasses all expectations. The Londoner's "three years of enlightenment" in the South Pacific makes such enthralling reading that I unhesitatingly call this one of the best rugby books ever written * Rugby World *Entertaining and insightful * The Rugby Paper *

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Book Synopsis'People think they know him but unless you read this book you will never know the REAL Alun Wyn Jones' – Warren Gatland‘One of the greatest, and seemingly indestructible, players in history' – A Daily Mail Book of the YearBelonging is the story about how the boy from Mumbles became the most capped rugby union player of all time. It is the story of what it takes to become a man who is seen by many as one of the greatest ever Welsh players. What it takes to go from sitting cross-legged on the hall floor at school watching the 1997 Lions tour of South Africa, to being named the 2021 Lions captain.But is it also about perthyn – belonging: playing for Wales, working his way through the age grades and club rugby and his regional side. How to earn the right to be there, and what it feels like to make the sacrifices along the way. Feeling the connection to players who have come before, and feeling the ties to the millions in front rooms and pubs across the country, coast to coast. Knowing that deep down you want to belong, as everyone does.From playing on the rain-swept pitches of Swansea to making his test debut against Argentina in Patagonia in 2006; from touring with the Lions in 2009, 2013, 2017 and 2021 to dealing with loss and creating a family – Belonging is the autobiography of one of the most compelling figures in world rugby. Told with characteristic honesty, this is his unique personal story of what it takes and what it means to play for your country: what it means to belong.

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Book SynopsisPraise for Eddie Jones‘A genuine super-coach’ – The Sunday Times‘His gifts of leadership and organisation are remarkable’ – The Daily MailEddie Jones is one of the most successful sports coaches of all time. From coaching three different nations to Rugby World Cup finals and enjoying a winning record with England of nearly 80 per cent, he knows what’s needed to lead and manage high performance teams. For the first time, Eddie reveals what it takes to operate in high pressure environments, the successes and setbacks, and how these lessons can be applied to every walk of life, from coaching a children’s sports team to leading a multinational organization to simply doing your job better.Forthright and unflinchingly honest, Eddie Jones reveals what he has learnt from Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsène Wenger and Pep Guardiola, as well as from the founder of Uniqlo and Ron Adams of the NBA. Drawing on stories from nearly thirty years of coaching, Eddie explains how you need humour, humility and relentless curiosity to lead an eclectic mix of superstars – from Maro Itoje to James Haskell, George Smith to Kyle Sinckler – and create teams that are relentlessly hungry to win. Leadership is the ultimate rugby book about what it takes to be the best.Written with Donald McRae, two-time winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award, Leadership is the book for anyone who wants to learn how to build and lead a team to success.

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Book SynopsisRugby union has undergone immense change in the past two decades - introducing a World Cup, accepting professionalism and creating a global market in players - yet no authoritative English-language general history of the game has been published in that time. Until now. A Game for Hooligans brings the game's colourful story up to date to include the 2007 World Cup. It covers all of the great matches, teams and players but also explores the social, political and economic changes that have affected the course of rugby's development. It is an international history, covering not only Britain and France but also the great rugby powers of the southern hemisphere and other successful rugby nations, including Argentina, Fiji and Japan. Contained within are the answers to many intriguing questions concerning the game, such as why 1895 is the most important date in both rugby-union and rugby-league history and how New Zealand became so good and have remained so good for so long. There is also a wealth of anecdotes, including allegations of devil-worship at a Welsh rugby club and an account of the game's contribution to the Cuban Revolution. This is a must-read for any fan of the oval ball.Trade ReviewAn ambitious project, triumphantly realised * Independent on Sunday *Crammed with fact and leavened with anecdote . . . an utterly reliable guide * Daily Telegraph *Huw Richards has managed to distil the very essence of rugby union history into this one volume . . . an excellent chronicle * The Independent *Magnificent * The Times *Engagingly quirky * Publishing News *

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Telegraph Sports Book Awards Rugby Book of the Year Among the best stories in modern British team sport has been the rise of Exeter Chiefs. How, exactly, did an unfashionable rugby team from Devon emerge from obscurity to become the double champions of England and Europe? What makes them tick? What are their secrets? Exe Men is a compelling story of regional pride, fierce rural identity, larger-than-life local heroes, remarkable characters, epic resilience, big city snobbery, geographical separation, steepling ambition and personal sacrifice which will strike a chord with anyone who enjoys a classic underdog story. This is not any old rugby book, it is the inside story of Exeter’s incredible journey from the edge of nowhere to the summit of the English and European club game.Trade Review'A beautifully-written, amusing and insightful book that gets to the very heart of Exeter Chiefs – a rugby club with one of the most remarkable stories in British sport. Exe Men is the best rugby book I’ve read in years' -- Donald McRae, twice winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year'Forensic, funny, captivating, a story told with relish as well as insight' -- Mick Cleary * The Telegraph *'No Exeter fan should be without this book, nor any sports fan who loves a fairy tale grounded in professionalism. Splendid stuff' -- Stuart Barnes * The Times *'Exeter Chiefs – the community club that grew into a European giant. This is how they did it. A quite brilliant combination of great story and great storyteller' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'Beautifully told, this is a rare insight into the remarkable rise of the Chiefs, from their homespun roots to the pinnacle of European rugby – surely one of the most heart-warming tales in all of British sport' -- Alastair Eykyn * BT Sport *'Punchy and penetrative, Robert Kitson has done justice to one of sport’s greatest stories. If you don’t already love Exeter, you will now' -- Alan Pearey * Rugby World *'So much more than a rugby book and full of genuinely funny anecdotes, this is a read for anyone interested in building a winning team' -- Chris Bentley * Express and Echo, Exeter *

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Book SynopsisIn this fully updated paperback edition of the Sunday Times bestseller, Jonny Wilkinson opens up to reveal what it is like to be the world''s most famous rugby player and an international sporting superstar. MY WORLD is a fascinating insight into his motivations, thoughts, hopes and fears as he discusses topics as far ranging as playing for England, his all-time heroes, becoming a celebrity, what it is like to be on the pitch with the hopes of a nation resting on your shoulders and in your feet and the positives that could be taken from the 2005 Lions Tour.For the first time, Jonny Wilkinson talks openly about the England World Cup campaign and the pressure he was under in those dramatic final moments when he won the cup for his country. Two years on he also reveals the battles he has had to face to bring himself back to full fitness as England build their team round him in preparation for the 2007 World Cup.

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Book SynopsisHere are Irish Rugby's most legendary, celebratory and brilliant moments from the 1940s to today.110 Great Irish Rugby Moments is a unique celebration of the sport's most significant moments. Featuring:- Grand Slam Glory for both Irish Men and Women. - A first Series win in New Zealand. - A drawn Series in South Africa. - European glory for Ulster, Munster and Leinster. - Connacht winning the Pro 12. - Ireland women achieve double defeat of mighty New Zealand.These epic moments are based on exclusive interviews with the game's biggest stars and most colourful personalities including Fiona Coghlan, Peter Clohessy, Ciaran Fitzgerald, Willie John McBride, Brian O'Driscoll, Ronan O'Gara and many more of the great and good of Irish Rugby. Enjoy a host of brilliant anecdotes and remarkable insights into the controversies, epic matches, thrilling contests and pivotal events on and off the field which shaped these 110 GREAT IRISH RUGBY MOMENTS.'This is an informative, insightful and impressive account of Irish rugby's greatest moments from the pre Jack Kyle epoch to the post Johnny Sexton era. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.' Ollie Campbell

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Book Synopsis**WINNER British Sports Book Awards SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR****Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award**Gareth Thomas had it all. Gareth’s inspiring and moving story transcends the world of sport to tell a universal truth about feeling like an outsider, and facing up to who you really are.Trade ReviewAstonishingly powerful * The Times *Proud offers an enthralling insight into a world and a struggle to which we are rarely given access… Thomas’ story is a harrowing reminder that sportsmen are as vulnerable as the rest of us… The honesty with which Thomas presents his many dark moments makes this an absolute must-read. An eye-opening glimpse into the inner turmoil of a national hero * Sport Magazine *Inspiring and moving * Daily Telegraph *Sensational * Rugby World *Achingly honest * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisThe Sunday Times bestseller'A genuine super-coach' – Stephen Jones, Sunday TimesBrilliant, honest, combative – Eddie Jones is a gigantic yet enigmatic figure in world rugby and a true legend of the game. In My Life and Rugby he tells his story for the first time, including the full inside story of England’s 2019 World Cup campaign.Since taking over as head coach of England in 2015, Eddie Jones has orchestrated a complete revival of the national team. He has won the Six Nations Championship back-to-back, including England’s first Grand Slam in a generation and their first-ever whitewash of Australia in their own backyard, as well as taking them on their longest-ever winning streak, matching the world record held by the All Blacks.Eddie Jones is one of the most experienced and decorated coaches in Rugby Union. His career has spanned four World Cups: from the 2003 final, working with South Africa when they won in 2007, and causing the greatest upset in the history of the game in 2015 when he masterminded the Japanese victory over South Africa. Most recently, he led England on their incredible run at the 2019 World Cup, culminating in a stunning victory against the All Blacks before falling to South Africa in the final.Learning from the extreme highs and lows of his own playing career – including the numerous successes playing for Randwick and New South Wales but also the painful disappointment of never playing for Australia – he shows what it takes to be the best in the world and how everything he has learned about the game, both on and off the pitch, has gone into plotting England’s route to the top of world rugby.Written with Donald McRae, twice winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year award and three-time Sports Feature Writer of the Year, My Life and Rugby is the story of one of the most compelling and singular figures in rugby. Told with unflinching honesty, this is the ultimate rugby book for all fans of the sport.Trade ReviewEternally thoughtful about his craft and sport . . . fascinating . . . Jones is brutally frank about himself and the people and players in his life. His gifts of leadership and organisation are clearly remarkable -- A Daily Mail Book of the Year * Daily Mail Books of the Year *A world-class coach -- Sir Clive WoodwardJones has a winning mentality - he is constantly asking for more. England were 18 games unbeaten and I saw his quote saying we are nowhere near ready to win a World Cup. He recognised what the end looks like and what that environment needs to look like. -- Gareth SouthgateAn absolute genius * Sydney Morning Herald *A genuine super-coach -- Stephen Jones * The Sunday Times *Refreshingly self-critical . . . Jones emerges as a more complex character than he had led us to believe -- The Times Sports Book of the YearOne of the best autobiographies of 2019 * Rugby World *

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