Welsh fly-half and standout player of the 1970s whose creative play, exceptional goal-kicking and Lions heroics during the famous 1974 unbeaten series in South Africa established him as a genuine rugby legend.
Phil Bennett is Wales's mercurial fly-half who succeeded the great Barry John and quickly established himself as a worthy heir. His famous try in the Barbarians' defeat of New Zealand in 1973 — initiated by his extraordinary jinking run through virtually the entire All Black team — produced one of rugby's most celebrated try-scoring sequences. His exceptional footwork and instinctive creativity epitomised the best of 1970s Welsh rugby.
Captaining Wales to Grand Slam victories in 1976 and 1978 during the golden era of Welsh rugby
How They Played
Bennett was known for his elusive running style, exceptional sidestep, and ability to create opportunities from seemingly impossible positions. His tactical kicking was precise and he possessed a strong boot for penalties and conversions.
Lasting Impact
Bennett is remembered as one of the finest fly-halves in Welsh rugby history and a key figure in Wales' most successful period during the 1970s.
Career Honours
- Welsh Rugby Union Triple Crown 1976
- Welsh Rugby Union Triple Crown 1977
- Welsh Rugby Union Triple Crown 1978
- Five Nations Grand Slam 1976
- Five Nations Grand Slam 1978
- Five Nations Championship 1975
- Five Nations Championship 1979
- British & Irish Lions Tour 1974 (unbeaten series win vs South Africa)
- British & Irish Lions Tour 1977
- Schweppes Welsh Cup Winner with Llanelli 1973
- Schweppes Welsh Cup Winner with Llanelli 1974
- Schweppes Welsh Cup Winner with Llanelli 1975
- BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year 1978
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Llanelli | 1967–1981 | 413 | 50 | #10 |
| Bridgend | 1981–1984 | 174 | 50 | #10 |
 Wales | — | 29 | — | — |