Ian robertson rugby biography of martin short

Fanatical dedication, fierce determination and a brilliant natural talent have established Ian William Robertson as one of the most successful international sportsmen this country has produced. His uncompromising search for perfection in the rugged arena of Rugby Union often plunged him into bitter controversy.

Ian Robertson is a Scottish broadcaster, writer and former international rugby player.

At times he was justifiably ranked among the 'Superbrats' of international sport. On other occasions he was a humble, self-effacing man who would sacrifice anything for team and country. Above all he had a 'professional' approach in one of the toughest amateur sports in the world. His international career has come to an end - painfully halted under a bone- jarring tackle playing for Zimbabwe Rhodesia against Transvaal at Salisbury in The injury has proved critical to his international career and with his broken wrist still not wholly mended, it seems unlikely that Robertson will play first-class rugby again.

Another factor persuaded him to retire. After having played in five internationals for South Africa against France and New Zealand, playing Test rugby is no longer the most important thing in his life. Playing rugby at international level is now therefore the fourth most important thing to have happened to me," he said.

Robertson's first-class career started when he was a precocious nineteen- year-old in his first year after finishing his schooling at Prince Edward School at Salisbury.

Ian Robertson (born 17 January ) is a Scottish broadcaster, writer and former international rugby player.

In his first senior season he quickly established himself as a regular member of Old Hararians First XV and earned a reputation as being a super-cool full back in a team that was later to develop into one of the strongest club sides in Southern Africa. Under the expert guidance of team-mate Brian Murphy, who is regarded by Robertson as one of the greatest players and thinkers in the game, the flame- haired teenager made his Rhodesian debut in that season — against South West Africa.

He came into the side to replace regular full back Chuck Sawyer, who had to withdraw because of illness. The critics of the day described his debut as a quiet, efficient game stamped with class. He went on to play two further matches during the season. This ice-cool approach developed into full-blooded brilliance during the next season when he played five games for Rhodesia, including an international against the touring All Blacks at Salisbury.