Roger Andrew Davis

Roger Davis was a lineout specialist, who when at the peak of his powers, evoked memories of the great Rob Heming in his prime. Tall, athletic and solidly built Davis was more than just a lock who could jump. He made effective use of his bulk and often shone in the tight.

Davis played his early rugby at The King’s School however the learning curve steepened dramatically when he arrived at the University of Sydney and found himself under the tutelage of Dave Brockhoff. Study and rugby were his focus for the next few seasons and he did well to juggle both.

In 1972 Davis made his debut for Sydney against Queensland and two years later for New South Wales, again against Queensland.

With the retirement of Stu Gregory in 1973 the Wallaby selectors chose Davis to make his Test debut against New Zealand in Sydney. Australia performed beyond expectations in a tight 0-2 series loss with the second match in Brisbane a 16-16 draw, however at the end of the season Davis faced a tough decision. Should he accept a Rhodes Scholarship or stay in Australia and continue his blossoming Test career? Academia won over and Davis went off to Pembroke College, Oxford, to earn a Masters in philosophy and win rugby Blues in 1974 and again in 1975.

Roger Davis played three Tests for Australia in a one-year international career.

Highlights

1974

Davis won his 1st Test cap alongside Garrick Fay in the 1st Test, 6-11 loss to New Zealand in Sydney. He retained his spot in the side for the remaining two Tests, both with Fay, the 16-16 draw at Ballymore and the 6-16 3rd Test loss at the S.C.G.