Winger

10.  Gerald Davies

 

When Welsh rugby aficionados mention the name "Gerald" in conversation, they'll only be talking about one person - Gerald Davies, arguably the finest winger of all time. In a 12 year, 46 cap career, Davies scored 20 tries for Wales and played at various times for Cambridge University, London Welsh, Cardiff and the Barbarians. He would possibly also have become the most capped winger in British Lions history had he not declined to tour in 1974 and 1977.  However, despite his absence on those tours, it was with the Lions in 1971 that Gerald is probably most remembered.  He and fly-half Barry John were central to the 2-1 series victory, and immortal Lions coach Carwyn James later paid tribute to their qualities; "I love an inner calm, a coolness, a detachment; a brilliance and insouciance which is devastating.  Some sniff the wind - they created it." 

 

As a youth Gerald's speed had been developed by training as a sprinter, and unlike many others, he later proved equally fast in a pair of rugby boots. Also blessed with swerve and a brilliant sidestep, Gerald's game was in total contrast to many wingers in the modern era who rely purely on strength and physical presence to achieve their ends. Indeed, after starting life as a centre, Gerald's skills were reluctantly shifted to the wing, a move that would bring the best out of him.