We’re into the fifteenth season of professional rugby, and remarkably, the professional ranks still include players who made their debut at representative and international level when the game was nominally amateur.
George Gregan, 37 on April 19, made his debut for the Wallabies in 1994. In 2010, he’s still going round as a professional player in Japan.
Andrew Mehrtens, 37 on April 28, came into the Canterbury NPC team in 1993 and the All Blacks in 1995. In 2010, he’s turning out for Racing Metro in the French Top 14.
He’s playing pretty well too, although somehow he never quite seems to be around when tackling is required.
Last but not least, Carlos Spencer, still relatively youthful at 34. He was only 16 when he first played NPC rugby for Horowhenua in 1992 and was blooded by the All Blacks in 1995.
In 2010, he is really up against it in the Super 14, trying to breathe some life into the toothless Lions.
Any others?
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
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