The Rorke's Drift Test

This is a story that had to be told because it is the stuff of legend. The British Lions rugby tour of Australasia in 1914 was filled with drama and controversy. It pulsated with incidents, and produced arguably the greatest performance ever displayed in a sport arena. Despite losing several key players to injuries the Lions were forced to play a deciding Test match, during which four more players had to retire permanently or receive off-the-pitch treatment for injuries. However, faced with almost impossible odds and a terrific struggle, they played with such grit and determination that they were victorious. Their impressive performance inspired a reporter to compare the game with the defence of Rorke’s Drift. The author re-examines several points that perhaps should not have previously been accepted as fact, and reveals why the Rorke’s Drift Test is still regarded as the greatest rugby match ever played. The work includes biographical tributes to the British participants, and a useful bibliography for further reading. The JWB Historical Library: Volume Six