Phil Bennett was born on October 24th 1948 and was a Welsh fly half from 1969 to 1978. His flair and range of tricks, including his famous sidestep and swerve, meant he was a firm favourite with crowds.
Born in Felinfoel, Wales, Phil made his debut in 1969 against France in Paris at the age of 20 when he became the 1st ever substitute in International Rugby. Initially, Phil played in a number of positions including full back and centre, but settled in the fly-half position in 1972.
His form meant that he joined the British Lions on their famous tour to South Africa in 1974, scoring 103 points. His 50-yard try against Pretoria on that tour was a career highlight.
He captained the British Lions on the 1977 Tour.
Bennett retired from Rugby Union in 1978, having won a total of 29 caps. He played his club rugby at Llanelli RFC. where he played 16 seasons. He also played 20 times for the Barbarians, including the famous game against the All Blacks in January 1973. In that game he was the catalyst for the Gareth Edward's try early in the game that connoisseurs of the game still regard as the finest ever scored. Gathering a bobbling ball in his own 22, Phil beat four players with his trade mark sidestep before passing to John
(JPR) Williams to launch the move. Cliff Morgan's now legendary commentary of the try describes it thus: "Kirkpatrick to Williams. This is great stuff. Phil Bennett covering, chased by Alistair Scown. Brilliant! Oh, that's brilliant! John Williams, Pullin, John Dawes. Great dummy! David, Tom David, the half-way line. Brilliant by Quinnell. This is Gareth Edwards. A dramatic start. What a score!"
This had shortly followed another defining moment in his career when, through an exceptional tactical kicking performance, he helped his beloved Llanelli to a 9-3 victory over the same touring All Blacks in October 1972.
In November 2005 Phil Bennett was finally admitted into the Welsh rugby hall of fame.

Phil's Career Stats. Courtesy of Stuart Farmer Media Service Ltd.