The Prenter Report #16

“The World Cup is the most imaginative piece of administration ever conjured by the legislators of Rugby League.”

A profound appraisal and declared by none other than the late Clive Churchill, undisputedly the world’s greatest ever fullback.

Churchill made the statement in his book-“They Called Me The Little Master” published in 1962.

In times when it is all too easy to take pot-shots at a World Cup competition, Churchill’s comments are refreshing.

He said in his book: “The World Cup is publicised as a competition for the World’s Rugby League Championship and, in this respect, the organisers are to be applauded.

“It began in 1954 on the basis of a World Cup every four years.

“I am hoping that one day it will be the greatest medium of excellent publicity for the Rugby League movement throughout the world.

“I believe the World Cup will become a grand achievement.”

Churchill was never one to exaggerate. He always told it as he saw it and he never minced his words.

He loved the game more than most and his lust for playing against England and the French was unsurpassed.

Churchill would marvel at the rivalry for World Cup fullback selection later this year.

I have an inkling he would give the nod to Billy Slater by a whisker from Brett Stewart.

By Geoff Prenter