P. T. WALSH FORGOTTEN?

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29952, 13 October 1962, Page 9

P. T. WALSH FORGOTTEN?

ON form this season at least, it is clear that New Zealand will be searching for mid-field backs for the tour of the British Isles in 1962-63. One of the major weaknesses in the three All Black test sides against Australia this winter was the lack of any ability at second five-eighths. Both R. C. Moreton (Canterbury) and W. A. Davies (Otago) were no more than adequate in these positions and with R. H. Brown, who played in one test in Australia, discarded for the New Zealand series, it was apparent that the country had little to offer in a very vital position.

But Auckland claimed to have the best, the most consistent second fiveeighths in the country and on displays it seemed that Auckland was right He is P. T. Walsh, who in 1955,

aged 19, was heralded as the back the All Blacks had been seeking for the last decade or so. Walsh was the backbone of the Auckland rearguard, this season a cool, competent player who was an excellent link between the unpredictable M. Herewini, at first five-eighths, and the formidable three-quarters. In addition Walsh was a clever attacking player, who was never bested in an encounter. At 26, Walsh is probably at his peak at Rugby and the national selectors, like everyone else outside of Auckland, are probably getting a fresh awareness* of this experienced player’s ability. A few years ago it was claimed that Walsh was being pushed into All Black sides, and there was a great deal of truth in that

assertion. He certainly had enough chances, but when he was dropped he went into the category of “former All Black—a limbo from which he has never escaped. With his ability to play in almost every position in the backs, Walsh would be an asset to a touring team.