LOT 34

Circa 1975-1978 Wales | Bobby Windsor

International Rugby Union jersey match-worn by Bobby Windsor

Jersey & Provenance

Jersey in complete and original condition. Umbro label (two globes) and Umbro print to hem, embroidered Prince of Wales feathers, complete with buttons, No.2 to reverse.

Provenance: the personal collection of Sir Gareth Edwards CBE & family.

Bobby Windsor

Robert William Windsor (b.1948), known as Bobby Windsor or ‘The Duke’ was part of the famous Pontypool front row which was immortalised in the Max Boyce song. He began his career as a fullback and outside-half but would move to the front row, winning 28 caps for Wales at that position.

He was a strong and muscular player, typical of the highly mobile and aggressive packs developed at Pontypool in the 1970s making them one of the most feared club sides of the era.

The Duke won his debut Wales cap against the Australians in 1973, in which he scored a rare try. After an impressive first season of international rugby, he was selected for the British Lions tour of South Africa in 1974.

On that unbeaten tour, Windsor formed part of a formidable forward unit which dominated the Springboks and placed Windsor as one of the best hookers in the game.

With Graham Price and Charlie Faulkner ‘The Pontypool Front Row’ was an ever present in the great Welsh sides of the 1970s. The trio played together for Wales on 19 occasions in total, tasting defeat just 4 times. They won Grand Slams in ‘76 and ‘78 and the Triple Crown in ’77.

Sir Gareth Edwards and Bobby Windsor are life-long friends.

The Match

As recalled by Sir Gareth, the jersey is believed to have been worn in 1978 which was Edwards’ final season and Bobby Windsor’s penultimate.

Sir Gareth Recalls

‘Bobby was the king of one-liners, a man able to make you crack up at any time of the day or night’.

Estimate: £1500-2500