The Indomitables: The 1946 Rugby League Tour of Australia and New Zealand

The 1946 Rugby League Lions tour to Australia and New Zealand is a remarkable story. It marked the relaunch of international rugby league in a world still devastated by the Second World War. It was also a great success for the Lions, as they won the Ashes and were the first team to be unbeaten in an Ashes series, despite an infamous sending-off in the first test. The players travelled to Australia on the Aircraft Carrier HMS Indomitable. They faced a gruelling schedule, playing 20 games in Australia in two months, and a further seven in New Zealand. This is the full story of one of the greatest Rugby League Lions tours ever. The touring party included some great British players, including Gus Risman, Tommy McCue, Eric Batten, Ernest Ward, Ike Owens, Joe Egan, Trevor Foster, Willie Horne, Willie Davies, Martin Ryan, Ken Gee and Doug Phillips. Based on extensive research and including fascinating photos and recollections from the players, this book will be of interest to all rugby league fans. Includes Doug Phillips tour diary. Colin Thomson is a lifelong rugby league fan. Originally from Bradford, he now lives in South Wales.