David Duckham

David John Duckham MBE (28 June 1946 – 9 January 2023) was an English rugby union player. He played 36 games for England (scoring 10 tries), in three tests on the 1971 British Lions tour to New Zealand and for Barbarians F.C. in their 1973 defeat of New Zealand. Early life and education Born in Coventry, Warwickshire on 28 June 1946, Duckham was educated at Coundon Infant and Junior School and King Henry VIII Grammar School, Rugby career Early success Duckham played his entire club career for his hometown club, Coventry R.F.C. playing at both centre and wing from 1967 to 1979. He made his international debut for England against Ireland in 1969, and quickly established himself as one of England's best centres. Duckham's early career saw him form a notable centre partnership with John Spencer. His game was marked by pace, swerves, sidesteps and an ability to wrong-foot his opponents, although this came at a time when the English team were struggling, especially against rivals Wales.