RobbieSmyth

Robertson Smyth had a distinguished career in the army and it was in rugby that he first came to the fore as a leader of men.

The Irishman captained Dublin University in 1902 and in that same year was invited to play for the Barbarians on two occasions.

Within 12 months the forward not only won his first Ireland cap had been invited to tour with the Lions to South Africa and played in all three Tests.

Smyth, who played his club rugby for the Wanderers, completed his medicine degree upon his return and was stationed on the Western Front during World War One.

He was eventually promoted to Major and was mentioned in despatches in 1916, but died later that year on his return from duty due the effects of exposure at the age of 36.