1. Barry John Welsh rugby
2. Barry John King of Welsh rugby.
Barry John, the Welsh rugby legend and one of the sport’s first superstars, has sadly passed away at the age of 79. The news of his death was announced by his family, who stated that he died peacefully at the University Hospital of Wales, surrounded by his loving wife and four children. John was not only a beloved father and grandfather to his 11 grandchildren, but he was also a much-loved brother.
Barry John rose to fame in the 1970s when he led the British and Irish Lions to a series victory over New Zealand. This was a remarkable achievement, especially considering that rugby union was still an amateur sport at the time. However, despite his success, John made the decision to retire from rugby at the young age of 27. It was reported that he struggled to cope with the attention and fame that came with being the sport’s equivalent of Manchester United’s George Best.
Mervyn Davies, the former Wales and Lions No 8, expressed his regret at John’s early retirement in Peter Jackson’s book, the Lions of Wales. Davies believed that John had not reached his full potential and should have continued playing rugby for a longer period of time.
Born in Cefneithin, north-west of Swansea, in 1945, Barry John began his rugby career playing for Llanelli before moving to Cardiff in 1967. It was during his time in Cardiff that he formed a formidable partnership with the legendary scrum-half Gareth Edwards. Together, they achieved great success and became a formidable duo on the field.
John made his debut for Wales in 1966 in a match against Australia, and he went on to win 25 caps for his country. He played alongside Gareth Edwards in almost all of his international matches, showcasing their incredible chemistry and skill on the field.
Barry John’s talent and skill were evident from the start, as he was selected for the Lions’ tour of South Africa in 1968. Unfortunately, his experience on the tour was cut short due to a collarbone injury. However, he made a strong comeback the following year, playing for Wales in the 1969 Five Nations Championship, where they emerged as winners. Wales then went on to win the Grand Slam in 1971, with John playing a crucial role in their success.
But it was the Lions’ tour to New Zealand in 1971 that truly cemented Barry John’s status as a rugby legend. He played in 17 out of the 26 tour matches and was instrumental in the Lions’ victory over the All Blacks in the first Test. His pinpoint kicking skills were vital in securing a 9-3 victory. Although New Zealand won the second Test, the Lions bounced back in the third, winning 13-3. The series ended in a draw in the fourth and final Test, giving the Lions a historic series win. John was hailed by the New Zealand media as “The King.”
After retiring from rugby, Barry John pursued a career in finance, working for a branch of Midland Bank. He later became a radio commentator and newspaper pundit, sharing his insights and expertise with fans and followers of the sport. Despite his early retirement, John acknowledged that he had some regrets about ending his career prematurely. He believed that he had a few more years of top-level rugby left in him, but the pressures of fame and celebrity were getting in the way.
Looking at the modern game of rugby union, John expressed his disappointment that it had become more focused on science and physicality rather than the artistic aspects of the sport. He believed that rugby was an art form and a battle of wits between players.
Barry John’s passing is a great loss to the world of rugby. His skill, talent, and contribution to the sport will always be remembered and celebrated..
– Barry John Welsh rugby
– Barry John ‘The King’.
