Legendary Tours: Historic Series and Encounters

Rugby, a game steeped in tradition and brimming with history, offers a tapestry of legendary tours and series that have not only shaped the sport but have also become an indelible part of global sporting folklore. This article takes you on an evocative journey through some of the most iconic tours and encounters that have left an everlasting legacy.

The Invincibles: The 1924 All Blacks Tour

One needs to start with the 1924 New Zealand All Blacks, a team so dominant that they were christened "The Invincibles." This legendary squad embarked on a tour of the British Isles, France and Canada. They played 32 matches and, remarkably, won all of them. Their unbeaten streak included victories over Ireland, Wales, England and a fiercely contested match against France. The Invincibles left an indelible mark not only on those who witnessed their games but also on the legacy of rugby, showcasing the formidable prowess and indomitable spirit of New Zealand rugby.

The Springboks' 1937 Tour of New Zealand

The Springboks' 1937 tour of New Zealand remains one of the most compelling chapters in rugby history. The South African team, led by Philip Nel, were recognised as the champions of their time. They faced formidable competition in New Zealand but managed to secure a series victory by winning two of the three test matches. The tour confirmed South Africa's rugby prowess and forged a rivalry with the All Blacks that continues to resonate through the sport to this day.

The 1971 British and Irish Lions Tour of New Zealand

In the annals of rugby history, few tours command the respect and awe that the 1971 British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand does. Captained by the unflappable John Dawes and under the tactical genius of coach Carwyn James, the Lions managed what many had thought impossible: they won a series against the All Blacks on New Zealand soil. With the brilliance of Barry John and Gareth Edwards, the Lions played a brand of rugby that was as exhilarating as it was effective. This unprecedented triumph not only enshrined the team's place in rugby history but also elevated the Lions' stature to legendary status.

The Barbarians vs. New Zealand, 1973

Though not a tour in the traditional sense, the 1973 encounter between the Barbarians and New Zealand at Cardiff Arms Park deserves mention for its singular historic significance. Often regarded as one of the greatest rugby matches ever played, it featured a breathtaking try by Gareth Edwards that has become the stuff of legend. The Barbarians' 23-11 victory is remembered for its cavalier style of play and serves as a reminder of rugby's enduring charm and spirit.

The 1974 British and Irish Lions Tour of South Africa - "The Invincibles"

On May 15th, 1974 the Lions embarked on a gruelling 10-week tour of South Africa which few thought they would survive. They were led by a resolute, hard-nosed Irish second-row, the 34 year-old Willie John McBride from the Province of Ulster. He had been derided as "over the hill" by an all-knowing journalist - who had apparently never played rugby. 11 weeks later they returned from South Africa having played an astonishing 22 games. Their record: Won 21; Drawn 1. They played four Tests against the Springboks, winning the first three. The last Test was drawn after the Lions were denied a try in the dying minutes by a controversial refereeing decision.

On arriving back in the UK, they were hailed by Lions supporters and the UK press (and eventually by all the rugby world) as "The Invincibles". The Lions 1974 tour to South Africa is regarded as the greatest ever international tour in the modern era.

The Wallabies’ 1984 Grand Slam Tour

The Australian Wallabies under the captaincy of Andrew Slack and the astute coaching of Alan Jones achieved something truly monumental in 1984: a Grand Slam, defeating all four Home Nations— England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. This feat, accomplished with a style of play that was both adventurous and resourceful, encapsulated the Wallabies' flair and strategic brilliance. The tour not only highlighted the ascendancy of Australian rugby but also inspired a new generation of players and fans alike.

The British and Irish Lions: The 2013 Tour of Australia

Fast forward to the modern era, and the Lions' 2013 tour of Australia stands out for its drama and sheer emotional intensity. Captained by the charismatic Sam Warburton and strategically guided by Warren Gatland, this Lions team ended a 16-year wait for a series victory. The tour was marked by fierce competition, culminating in a resounding 41-16 victory in the decisive third Test. The series win was celebrated not only for its sporting achievement but also for reigniting the passion and interest in the Lions' storied tradition.

The British and Irish Lions: The 2017 Tour of New Zealand

As a fitting footnote to this article, the 2017 Lions Tour to New Zealand epitomises the spirit and ethos of this unique contest, within the larger context of Rugby as a whole. Since 1904, the British and Irish Lions have played twelve series against the All Blacks. They have won but one, in 1971.

On the 2017 tour, having already battled against the NZ Barbarians, the Maoris, and the best of Super Rugby, the Lions took on the All Blacks at Eden Park in the first Test, and lost. A week later, the second Test in Wellington, the Lions deftly turned the tables and won. This ensured that the series would not be a dead rubber, and set up a juicy prospect in Auckland a week later. Predictably, the third Test, back in Eden Park, was a classic confrontation: a fierce, furious, full-on fracas between two amazingly talented and fully-committed teams, both desperate for the win. It ended in a 15-15 draw.

Both teams were gutted that they didn't win; on the other hand, both teams were relieved that they didn't lose. In their post-match comments, the opposing captains - Sam Warburton for the Lions, Kieran Read for the All Blacks - were honest, fair, insightful and gentlemanly. And so, apparently, were the two teams: the Lions as they flew back up North; the Kiwis as they drove home. Both sides were proud; neither side was ecstatic; each side had earned the respect of the other; and all had enjoyed testing themselves against the best, acquitting themselves honourably, and making new mates on the other side. The 2017 Lions Tour epitomises the spirit of rugby.

Wrap-Up

These legendary tours and encounters have captured the imagination of rugby fans worldwide, transcending the sport to become a part of regional and even global heritage. They highlight the excellence, intensity and camaraderie that define rugby, offering stories of triumph, challenge, and unforgettable moments. Through these tales, the history of rugby continues to inspire, educate, and engender a deep, abiding love for one of the world’s most storied sports.