Rugby League World Cup 1972 Retro Polo. Inspired by the Clive Sullivan champion team.
Rugby League World Cup – France, Australia, New Zealand & Great Britain
In 1972 Clive Sullivan was handed the captaincy of Great Britain Rugby League team. They played two tests against France. Also, later in 1972 the World Cup took place in France. He retained the captaincy and led Great Britain to become world champions. In addition, he scored a try in each of Great Britain’s four games. And scored a try in the final against Australia in the World Cup Final. It was a memorable try with him running the length of the field to score.
Rugby League 1972 World Cup Unlikely Hero
Sullivan was the first black captain of any British sports team. He was born in the Splott, an inner-city suburb of Cardiff on 9 April 1943. His mother’s family was of Antiguan descent. And his father was Jamaican. Sullivan began playing rugby at school.
But from the age of 14, injuries meant that he required surgery on his knees, feet and shoulders. Doctors thought it unlikely that he would ever be able to walk normally again and a rugby career seemed unlikely. In 1961 he joined the army after leaving school and working for a while as a motor mechanic. He was posted to Catterick in the North Riding of Yorkshire. And while there was picked for an inter-corps rugby match. He was invited to trial at Bradford Northern at the age of 17. And then offered a trial at Hull.
Rugby League World Cup Final
The pinnacle of his career was the Rugby League World Cup Final. He led out the team at the Stade de Gerald in Lyon, France. Australia were their opponents. Captained by the legendary Graeme Langlands.
John O’Neill and Arthur Beetson scored tries for the Kangaroos. Also, Ray Branighan kicked 2 goals. Mike Stephenson scored the 73rd-minute try that helped Great Britain level the scores and secure the World Cup. But, the game will always be remembered for Great Britain Rugby League captain Clive Sullivan’s wonderful long distance try.
Manufacturing
This Great Britain Retro Rugby League Polo Polo is manufactured from 100% chunky pique cotton. In addition, the garment features detailed embroidery. Also an appliqué badge as well as inner contrast placket, arm rib and collar stand.
