1954 Rugby League World Cup Vintage Olive T-Shirt

Description

An Introduction to 1954 Rugby League T-Shirt World Cup

The 1954 Rugby League T-Shirt World Cup was led by the French RL President Paul Barrière. Barrière proposed a tournament held in France in 1953. And invitations were sent to Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand and the United States. It followed the sensational 1951 France tour of Australia. It followed when they defeated the Kangaroos in a memorable test series led by the legendary Puig Aubert. The initiative was supported by Bill Fallowfield from Britain, but the Australians were less enthusiastic. Eventually, after a guaranteeing cost of £25,000, the Kangaroos agreed. The tournament was delayed until 1954 and the USA’s invitation was withdrawn.

Great Britain had toured Australia in the summer of 1954. The tour lasted from mid-May through to the end of August. And it included a gruelling schedule, often paying three matches in the space of seven days. Many of the recognised Great Britain Rugby League internationals declared themselves unavailable for the Rugby League World Cup tournament. Only three of the 1954 tourists accepted the invitation. These were Captain Huddersfield’s Dave Valentine, Barrow’s Phil Jackson and Warrington’s Gerry Helme. Budgets were tight. The team could not afford to pay Coach Joe Egan. So the squad was fully led by Scotsman Valentine.

Dave Valentine leads Great Britain to victory

Besides, the story of Great Britain’s triumph in the very first Rugby League World Cup is a true sporting legend. Inspired by their Skipper Dave Valentine, the British team defied all the pre-tournament predictions. Described by critics in the press as ‘no-hopers’, they crossed the Channel and returned as conquering heroes.

France entertained New Zealand in the inaugural game at the Parc des Princes in Paris. Further, 13,240 spectators were treated to an exceptional game of Rugby League with France winning by 22 points to 13.

Moreover, Jean Audoubert, Raymond Contrastin, Joseph Creeps and Guy Delaye crossed for France. He crossed with Puig Aubert adding four goals and a drop goal. In response, the Kiwis managed three tries through Cyril Eastlake, Jimmy Edwards and Ron McKay with two goals from John Bond. The French were worthy winners. More importantly, the French public had seen a very competitive game featuring some sparkling tries.

The focus was now on Great Britain and Australia. The Aussies were firm favourites having wrestled the Ashes back from the British earlier in 1954. Staged at the Stade de Gerland in Lyon, the match drew a crowd of 10,250. The crowd had no disappointment by a rousing game. Britain’s 28 points to 13 victory greeted with great enthusiasm. The new look team, superbly led by Valentine against all the odds had defeated the firm favourites.

Rugby League Cares

With every sale, Rugby League Cares receives donations as a charity that helps players transition out of the sport. And supports players’ past and present who are enduring poor health or hardship.

Manufactured from 100% cotton, the Ellis Rugby 1954 Rugby League World Cup T-Shirt Olive features a classic print. And celebrates the history of the inaugural tournament held in France. Also, this garment includes a decorative woven label.

This T-Shirt is available in sizes S – 5XL.

As well as the 1954 Rugby League World Cup T-Shirt Olive, we also offer this style in Navy and our 1972 Rugby League T-Shirts in Navy or White.