Former Gloucester flanker John Gadd finally receives the honour he missed in the early 1980s. After appearing for England against Fiji in 1982 and Canada in 1983 – fixtures that were not classified as full internationals at the time – the Rugby Football Union has awarded him a retroactive cap, joining 46 other overlooked players.

Gadd, 67, said his late parents and rugby‑mad uncle would have loved to see his name on the official record. During ten years in Gloucester’s back row with England and Lions star Mike Teague, he earned an England B call‑up and played the full 80 minutes in both Twickenham tests. He also recalled a grueling tour of United States and Canada that forged his reputation.

The RFU’s review, stretching back to 1945, seeks to recognise any player who featured in England’s ‘best available’ side against another nation’s top XV. A ceremony later this year will present the caps, while officials continue tracing families of 28 remaining candidates. Gadd called the moment “surreal,” confirming his status at age 67. His cap will be displayed alongside his Gloucester jersey in museum.