|
There was only really one scrum-half in the British Isles in the late sixties and early seventies and that was the Welshman, Gareth Edwards. Nevertheless, Nigel Starmer-Smith was a skilful and agile footballer who deserved to end his international career with more than seven caps to his name. As it was he had to wait for those caps and was a reserve seven times over three years before finally being capped against the Springboks in December 1969. It was worth the wait. In many ways it was a game which marked the beginning of a new era both for Starmer-Smith and England; his first cap, the first time England had a coach and the first squad training session.
It would also be the first time England beat the Springboks. The South Africa tour had been beset with problems with many games disrupted by anti-apartheid demonstrations. England started poorly but soon settled and after Starmer-Smith had burst into the opponents twenty-two, the English lock Peter Larter crashed over for a try. The game was a perfect showcase for 'Starmers' - the energy, the darting runs and the sheer joy of playing were all on display. He would go on to play in the Five Nations in the 1970 season. A former teacher at Epsom School, he turned his considerable talent to broadcasting and writing. He was editor of Rugby World and Post and has brought many an international game to life through his intelligent commentary. The ideals he valued in his playing days, remain in his commentary - he is a commentator who demands that rugby should be played hard but fair. (John Lovell).
In the late 1960s he taught geography at Epsom College. He edited Rugby World magazine and for 15 years introduced Rugby Special for the BBC. He had three children two of whom, Charlotte and Julian, died in their teens. Charlotte from a rare blood disorder aged just sixteen and nine years later Julian aged nineteen, from cancer.
|