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English rugby has never been comfortable with players prepared to take a few risks and it was this conservative approach which prevented Stuart Barnes from gaining more caps. Ten caps, hardly reflects the intuitive talent of the Bath stalwart. Barnes captained the Welsh Senior Schools team and was invited to join the Welsh senior squad in 1981, who had already noticed his considerable talent. He opted for England instead. Capped at under-23 level, he was selected for the full England side in 1984, playing against the Grand Slam winning Wallabies side.
The following year, he made the tour to New Zealand playing in the Christchurch and Wellington Tests. He returned to play in Five Nations games against Scotland and France in 1986, but from this point on his England appearances were limited. The record-breaking Rob Andrew arrived on the scene. Theirs was a contrast in playing styles - Barnes, the running fly half, who with a jink and a 'shimmy' could break the opponent's defensive line, Andrew, the kicking fly-half, who rarely troubled opposing defences. Barnes enjoyed unrivalled success with Bath, in both League and Cup. However, England were never prepared to put their trust in a fly-half who could do it all. An excellent reader of the game, he orchestrated moves, instinctively knowing when to alter the line of attack.
A glimpse of his true genius was displayed on his recall to the side in 1993. In the game against Scotland, England were stuck deep in their half. From quick ball, Barnes scampered through a gap, figuring in the move again, before Underwood touched down in the corner for a sensational try. The Lions recognised his talent and he toured New Zealand in 1993 - however, he would see that man Andrew, again take the test spot. (John Lovell)
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