Beyond the pitch: The 15 Best Rugby Books too Deepen Your Love of the Game
Table of Contents
The best rugby books offer a unique vantage point, moving beyond the 80 minutes on the field to explore the stories, cultures, and personalities that define the sport. Whether you’re seeking insightful autobiographies, compelling oral histories, or a deeper understanding of rugby’s global landscape, these 15 books are essential additions to any fan’s library – perfect for gifting or for curling up with as the weather cools.
“Who said talking a good game was a bad thing?” the source material asks, highlighting the power of rugby narratives. These books deliver on that promise, offering perspectives from players, coaches, referees, and those who live and breathe the game.
autobiographies: Inside the Minds of Rugby legends
The world of rugby memoirs is thriving, with new releases from stars like George North, Conor Murray, Andrew Porter, and Eben Etzebeth arriving this year. However, LOOSE HEAD by Joe Marler stands out. Subtitled Confessions of an (Un)professional rugby Player,Marler’s book offers an idiosyncratic look at the game,fueled by the prop’s unexpected fame as a sleuthing star on Celebrity Traitors.
For a poignant exploration of national pride and sporting identity, look no further than CALON by Owen Sheers. The Welsh word for “heart,” Calon provides phenomenal access to the players of the 2012 Grand Slam-winning team, celebrating their connection to the Welsh people and offering a nostalgic journey for fans.
THE ONLY WAY I KNOW by Andy Farrell charts the remarkable journey of the Ireland coach, from his early days in rugby league with Wigan to leading the British & Irish Lions.It’s a story decades in the making, demonstrating that some autobiographies are best told after a lifetime of achievement.
A more unconventional memoir comes in the form of THE BISH: IT’S ALL ABOUT ME by David Bishop.Despite being considered one of the best scrum-halves to emerge from Wales, Bishop’s international career was cut short, leading to a life filled with drink, drugs, and prison. With a foreword by Welsh football manager craig Bellamy, this is a rugby memoir unlike any other.
Behind the Scenes: Understanding the Game’s Inner Workings
What does it truly mean to play for England? BEHIND THE ROSE by stephen jones and Nick Cain answers this question, offering a candid and revealing look at the inner workings of the England rugby team. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the pressures and politics of international rugby.
SEVENS HEAVEN by Ben Ryan recounts the inspiring story of Fiji’s Rugby Sevens gold medal win at the 2016 Rio Olympics – the nation’s first-ever Olympic medal. Ryan details his journey from the England set-up to managing the Pacific islanders with limited resources.
The rise of women’s rugby is powerfully documented in SCRUM QUEENS: THE STORY OF WOMEN’S RUGBY by Ali Donnelly. From wartime matches to the first World Cup in 1991 and the modern-day stars like Ilona Maher and Ellie Kildunne, this book charts the remarkable journey of the women’s game.
Reflecting on the Past and Present
TRIUMPHS, TROPHIES AND TROUBLES by Peter bills explores the remarkable transformation of Irish rugby, from perennial underdogs to a world-leading team. It examines the national team’s relationship with grassroots rugby and its co-existence with Gaelic football.
**RUGBY WAS F*ING BETTER WHEN… by Paul Williams sparks debate about whether the game has truly changed for the worse, inviting readers to consider whether nostalgia is clouding their judgment.
These 15 books offer a diverse and compelling range of perspectives on the sport of rugby, ensuring there’s something to captivate every fan.
