Corry steps aside
Martin Corry retired from international rugby on this day in 2008
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2008
Former England skipper Martin Corry announced his retirement from international rugby. Corry made his senior England debut in Argentina in 1997 after previous recognition at Under-18, Students and A levels. He captained his country for the first time during the 2005 Six Nations and made his 64th Test appearance in the 2007 World Cup Final against South Africa after captaining England during the earlier stages of the tournament. The back-row forward also gained six Test caps in two tours with the British & Irish Lions, captaining them on occasion during the 2005 tour to New Zealand. He continued to represent Leicester at domestic level, retiring from all rugby after captaining the Barbarians to victory over England in 2009.
1979
South Africa's World Cup-winning fly-half Butch James was born in Johannesburg. James started six games at the 2007 Rugby World Cup as the Springboks went all the way, with the Sharks man showing new-found composure to go with his physical prowess. He had earlier helped his franchise to the Super 14 final, but joined Guinness Premiership side Bath following the World Cup. His first season in England was a success but was again struck by a knee injury in 2009, ruling him out of contention in the latter part of the season and into 2010.
1883
Wales arrived two players short for their first fixture against Scotland and roped in an Edinburgh University student, John Griffin, who had no Welsh connections whatsoever. Scotland won by three converted tries to one.
1887
For the first time Wales avoided defeat in an international against England. The match staged on a frozen pitch at Llanelli Cricket Ground ended in a 0-0 draw, ending a run of five Test defeats.
1944
Mr Lathwell, a well-known referee, had his work cut out to prevent a robust match between the Welsh Guards and the Royal Australian Air Force breaking out into an all-out brawl at Richmond. The Aussies included several distinguished rugby league players and won 9-0 - only the second defeat of the season for the Guards.
1955
Scotland opened their Five Nations season by crashing 15-0 to a rampant French side in Paris. It was Scotland's 17th successive Test defeat since 1951 - the worst run in their rugby history. Amedee Domenech and Jean Prat were among the scorers for the French.
1969
Former England centre Bob Lloyd scored four tries for Surrey in their 34-14 win against The Army under the Hersham floodlights. Surrey captain Bob Hiller was in good kicking form, landing two penalties and converting two tries.
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