Unveiling the Silent Assassin of Welsh Rugby – Justin Tipuric

Sport is a magnet that has drawn many talented individuals, and rugby is no exception. At times, it takes more than just physical strength to succeed in this sport. Sometimes, it requires silence and unassuming nature along with exceptional skills to excel on the pitch.

The Rise to Fame:

Justin Tipuric’s journey from hopping over his parent’s back fence for local village games to playing for British & Irish Lions has been nothing short of remarkable. He grew up in Trebanos, where he was the third generation of his family to play for Swansea Valley side. During his formative years, he developed interest in various sports including cricket, football, tennis and rugby but ultimately chose rugby as his career option.

A natural on rugby sevens circuit with Wales; he quietly learned from former All Black Marty Holah at Ospreys before breaking through into club and country teams. Despite not being physically imposing like other players or making a huge impression initially; tipuric soon became an integral part of both national and international sides because of his skillset.

The Velvet Glove:

In Warren Gatland’s squad which was dominated by size and brute force; there needed someone who could provide finesse rather than raw power – enter “The Velvet Glove” – Justin Tipuric! His pressure led captain Sam Warburton often forced across into number six jersey while tipuric played as a seven: A ball player as well as a ball winner, he was like a fly-half in a forward’s disguise.

Former Ospreys and Wales team-mate James Hook hailed him by saying “He was one of the most talented players to play the modern game,” adding further, “He’s the only forward I know who could have played professionally as a back.”

The Silent Leader:

Tipuric won 93 caps for his country – Wales winning Six Nations titles in 2012, 2013, 2019 and 2021; while also being selected for three successive Lions tours but despite all this success he remained an unassuming figure.

Captaincy for both Ospreys and Wales suited Tipuric better on the field rather than off it. His peers listened to every word but he was never interviewed much due to his reluctance towards media or press.