The rugby world has lost a quiet hero. Roy 'Shunto' Thomas, the Llanelli hooker who helped topple the mighty All Blacks in 1972, has passed away at 82. While his name might not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, his story is a fascinating one, filled with dedication, near-misses, and a moment of sporting glory that cemented his place in rugby history.
Thomas was a stalwart for Llanelli, racking up an impressive 184 appearances between 1970 and 1977. But it was that single match against New Zealand at Stradey Park, a 9-3 victory that sent shockwaves through the rugby world, that defined his legacy. And this is the part most people miss: Thomas achieved this feat despite being perpetually overshadowed at the international level.
During the 1970s, substitutions were a rarity, reserved only for injuries. This meant Thomas, a highly capable hooker, was forced to watch from the Wales bench a staggering 25 times, never getting the chance to earn a full international cap. The reason? The presence of the legendary Bobby Windsor, a giant of the game who dominated the hooker position for Wales, Pontypool, and the British and Irish Lions.
Was Thomas simply unlucky, or was Windsor truly that much better? It's a question that still sparks debate among rugby fans.
While Thomas never donned the red jersey in a full Test match during his prime, he was later recognized for his contributions. The Welsh Rugby Union awarded him a President's cap for his appearance against Tonga in 1974, a game that, at the time, wasn't considered a full international.
The Scarlets, the modern incarnation of Llanelli RFC, paid tribute to Thomas on social media, expressing their deep sadness and offering condolences to his family and friends.
Thomas's story is a reminder that sporting greatness isn't always measured in caps or trophies. His unwavering commitment to Llanelli and his role in that historic victory against the All Blacks ensure his place in rugby folklore.
What do you think? Did Roy Thomas deserve more international recognition? Let us know in the comments below.
