It is with much sadness that Pontypool RFC has learned of the passing, after a long illness, of one of its all-time greats, Malcolm Price, aged 86.
Malcolm John Price was born in Abersychan on Wednesday 8th December 1937 and attended Abersychan Technical School.
He played for Pontypool Youth and gained his Welsh Youth cap at outside half in 1955-56.
He was a Corporal in the Royal Air Force and was stationed at St Athan, where he was converted to a centre.
Malcolm first played for Pontypool in the 1956-57 season, was captain from 1960-1962 and led the combined Pontypool & Cross Keys team that faced South Africa at Pontypool Park in 1960.
He gained nine Welsh caps between 1959-1962 and scored two tries.
Malcolm was selected for the British Lions tour of 1959 and played in 19 games in total (four in Australia, scoring three tries, scored 11 tries in 14 appearances in New Zealand and played one game in Canada when he dropped a goal).
He scored two tries in the second test against Australia and two more in the first test against New Zealand, appearing in five of the six tests (both in Australia and the first three in New Zealand).
He also played for the Barbarians, Royal Air Force, Combined Services and Ranji Walker’s XV.
However, shortly after playing against England at Twickenham in January 1962, Malcolm joined Oldham Rugby League Club and scored 14 tries in 23 appearances from 1962-1966, having suffered several injuries.
He moved to Rochdale Hornets from 1966-1969 and gained two caps for Great Britain in 1967 against Australia, scoring one try.
He appeared briefly for Salford during 1969.
He was employed by the Co-operative Society and in 1999 was a part-time curator of Rochdale Pioneers (Co-op) Museum.
Malcolm was a hugely talented and exciting rugby player, in both codes.
Everyone at Pontypool RFC sends their deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to Malcolm’s family at this very sad and difficult time.
