Winston McCarthy reminisces on famous players from 1945-6, full backs to five eighths ; Winston McCarthy [Reflects on post-war international rugby, players and broadcasting].

Rights Information
Year
1957
Reference
139596
Media type
Audio
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Rights Information
Year
1957
Reference
139596
Media type
Audio
Categories
Nonfiction radio programs
Radio programs
Radio speeches
Sound recordings
Duration
00:31:52
Credits
RNZ Collection
McCarthy, Winston John, 1908-1984, Interviewee, New Zealand Broadcasting Service
New Zealand Broadcasting Service (estab. 1946, closed 1962), Broadcaster

Winston McCarthy lists highly recommended post-war players from full backs to wing three-quarters to centres to five-eighths. Beginning with pre-eminent full back, Scott; Herbie Cook; Don Clarke from Waikato (most prodigious kicker); Tom Webster from Otago (top notch full back and grand kicker); Jack Goddard from South Canterbury (grand full back). A long list of players’ names are recounted including best first-five-eight, Fred Allen; and best second-five-eight, Ike Proctor.

Winston McCarthy then comments on international play, the BBC, his own commentary and favourite players.

The Kiwis (New Zealand Service team) were very fit due to their army training and were brilliant in attack. The BBC criticised Winston McCarthy’s accent – apparently, it sounded like Cockney. Nevertheless, the BBC asked him to join them as a Commentator because he was so engaging with his quick-fire approach. Winston talks a little about the Australian and South African tours. He has enjoyed commentating for rowing, golf championships, and tennis. However, he says his best broadcast was actually for a soccer game, a Chatham Cup final a few years ago. Winston then makes his pick for the best team, looking back over the past eleven years.