World of Boxing and Rugby Union
Openside Flanker
3. Peter Winterbottom
A defensive rock; Peter Winterbottom was couragous in the tackle and as hard as nails. He made his England debut in 1982 as a 21 year old. The energy, toughness and strength that would be his trademark, were soon in evidence, and obvious comparisons were made with another blonde-haired flanker, the legendary Jean Pierre Rives. Having played for two seasons in the national side Winterbottom was called up for the 1983 Lions tour of New Zealand, having furthered his rugby education with the Hawke's Bay club in 1982.
He relished the opportunity to play there again, and was highly rated by New Zealand fans and coaches alike. He played in 12 of the 18 matches - a gruelling itinerary - and appeared in all 4 tests. Winterbottom, aggressive and consistent, was one of the few stars of the tour. On his return, he played in the Five Nations and toured South Africa in 1984. Injuries then began to hinder his career and he did not figure in English plans in the 1985 season. However, his thirst for international rugby was unrelenting and he returned to the team and made the trip Down Under for the first Rugby World Cup.
In the late eighties, English rugby began to flourish as the Geoff Cooke era began to transform fortunes. However, Winterbottom came under increasing pressure from Bath's Andy Robinson, who like him was known as a mobile and fiercely competitive flanker. In the 1988-89 season, he switched
from his beloved Headingley to the fashionable Harlequins and this undoubtedly raised his profile. Unfortunately, he did not make the Lions Tour to Australia in 1989. From the 1990 Five Nations to his retirement in 1993, the farmer, was ever-present in the England set-up. These were very much the crowning years of English rugby, where a team which boasted huge experience peaked. Winterbottom formed a formidable back-row with Dean Richards and Mickey Skinner - a feared combination. Winterbottom had an uncanny ability to get to the breakdown first.
His tackling did not diminish with age and he was able to send the enemy back from where they came. With the pack winning quality ball, a talented back division was able to run riot and England, with Winterbottom as link man, played some of their best rugby. The Grand Slam was finally won in 1991. He also was a key member of the 1991 World Cup Final team, which may well have won had it stuck to the tactics that had got it to the final - unashamed forward domination. The disappointment of defeat was soon erased by another Grand Slam in 1992. Like a vintage wine, Winterbottom improved with age and was a natural choice for the 1993 Lions tour of New Zealand - there aren't many players who have made two Lions tours, ten years apart. Although, the body was older, the rugby brain had become astute and he played in three tests for the Lions.
A true English warrior who for me is the best number seven we have ever produced.