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My Autobiography
'Extraordinary . . . great fun' Barry Egan, Irish Sunday Independent
'A wonderful story . . . vivid and comprehensive.' Stephen Jones, Sunday Times
''Throughout it all though there is a feeling of warmth for the sport and for others. Above all there is a sense of achievement . . . Best was never one of the glamour boys, but he deserves star billing.' Daily Telegraph
Rory Best is widely-regarded as one of Ireland's greatest ever captains. Entrusted by Joe Schmidt to lead the side that looked on the wane following the 2015 World Cup, Best's inspirational leadership skills and abrasive qualities proved to be the foundation stones for the most successful period in Ireland's history.
His first year in charge saw Ireland complete a hat-trick of victories against the southern hemisphere 'Big Three', including leading his side to a first ever victory over world champions New Zealand in Chicago, a feat that etched Best's place in Irish sporting folklore and ended the All Blacks' record-winning streak of 18 Test victories.
Ireland's annus mirabilis under Best's captaincy would come in 2018 however, when he led the side to only their third Grand Slam title, culminating with a famous victory over England at Twickenham, and a record-breaking run of 12 successive Test victories.
When he stepped down as Ireland captain at the age of 37 following the World Cup in Japan, his fourth tournament, history will no doubt also judge Best to be one of their greatest forwards.
A hugely-popular figure across the game, Best finished his career as Ireland's most capped forward, behind only Brian O'Driscoll and Ronan O'Gara in the all-time records, and also made over 200 appearances for his province Ulster.
'A wonderful story . . . vivid and comprehensive.' Stephen Jones, Sunday Times
''Throughout it all though there is a feeling of warmth for the sport and for others. Above all there is a sense of achievement . . . Best was never one of the glamour boys, but he deserves star billing.' Daily Telegraph
Rory Best is widely-regarded as one of Ireland's greatest ever captains. Entrusted by Joe Schmidt to lead the side that looked on the wane following the 2015 World Cup, Best's inspirational leadership skills and abrasive qualities proved to be the foundation stones for the most successful period in Ireland's history.
His first year in charge saw Ireland complete a hat-trick of victories against the southern hemisphere 'Big Three', including leading his side to a first ever victory over world champions New Zealand in Chicago, a feat that etched Best's place in Irish sporting folklore and ended the All Blacks' record-winning streak of 18 Test victories.
Ireland's annus mirabilis under Best's captaincy would come in 2018 however, when he led the side to only their third Grand Slam title, culminating with a famous victory over England at Twickenham, and a record-breaking run of 12 successive Test victories.
When he stepped down as Ireland captain at the age of 37 following the World Cup in Japan, his fourth tournament, history will no doubt also judge Best to be one of their greatest forwards.
A hugely-popular figure across the game, Best finished his career as Ireland's most capped forward, behind only Brian O'Driscoll and Ronan O'Gara in the all-time records, and also made over 200 appearances for his province Ulster.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 30, 2020
A good insight to a legend of the game. Arguably the best Irish captain yet.
July 20, 2020
This was amazing, couldn't put it down and finished it in less than 48 hours. Rory tells a great story about his life in rugby, the hardships and his time as captain. He remains extremely noble about his time in the green jersey, and refers to the great captains before him (Brian 'O Driscoll, Paul 'O Connelly) with great respect. And it ends with an insight of home short but terrific time with the Barbarians. Best has been an inspiration, and I'm going to miss seeing him on the pitch. Definitely one of Ireland's greatest.
December 9, 2023
Reposted from CB Book Reviews on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/C0obQRlt8...
Released shortly after his retirement from Rugby in 2019, this autobiography walks you through the life and career of Rory Best, Ulster and Ireland Hooker. Rory discusses challenges that he has overcome in his career such as mentality, issues with drinking, his brother’s early retirement and media criticism.
As someone who came to Rugby later on, doesn’t have a great in depth knowledge of the Irish Rugby system, and having read this book a few years after it has been released, I found it a little difficult to connect with. I found that unlike when reading Claudio Ranieri’s book previously, I wasn’t easily able to recall the games being referenced. I also found that whilst the book was generally in chronological order, it did jump around a bit which at times made it a little more difficult to follow.
Released shortly after his retirement from Rugby in 2019, this autobiography walks you through the life and career of Rory Best, Ulster and Ireland Hooker. Rory discusses challenges that he has overcome in his career such as mentality, issues with drinking, his brother’s early retirement and media criticism.
As someone who came to Rugby later on, doesn’t have a great in depth knowledge of the Irish Rugby system, and having read this book a few years after it has been released, I found it a little difficult to connect with. I found that unlike when reading Claudio Ranieri’s book previously, I wasn’t easily able to recall the games being referenced. I also found that whilst the book was generally in chronological order, it did jump around a bit which at times made it a little more difficult to follow.
August 2, 2020
Over 50 years removed from Ireland but try to keep up with any Rugby Union news, thanks to the internet. So pleased to read this as have been a fan of Rory for a long time. Totally underrated as a leader and hooker. Some so-called Irish sports journalists need to check their bias. Loved this and learned so much about this quiet, strong and thoughtful Ulster-man. A proud Irishman so wonderful to see him recognized in the Queen's honours! I besotted by Willie John McBride back in my days in Dublin and I feel Rory filled those shoes albeit in a different forward position. Thanks Rory for the excellent play and leadership over the years and enjoy your retirement!!
"STAND UP FOR THE ULSTER-MAN"
"STAND UP FOR THE ULSTER-MAN"
April 30, 2020
Excellent autobiography of a star, often unheralded, often criticised, but at the end of the day, a glittering career, two grand slams, two wins over New Zealand, and 38 tines Captain of his country. Thank you Rory.
March 7, 2025
Love this book Rory share his heart on all the high and lows of his Rugby career with Ireland & Ulster. Rory is very much a family man and it was real clear from the start Rugby was a big part of Rory life from a young age.
June 15, 2020
Great insight into the life of Rory Best Ulster and Irish Captain Was a bit hard to stay focused on the book 📚 but it was an inspiring read from Ireland’s best Captain ever.
December 2, 2021
an amazing book
December 4, 2023
This book was fantastic so so good couldn’t put it down.
December 24, 2020
An interesting insight into one of Irelands greatest captains! Could have been written more fluidly and creatively but otherwise a good account
December 14, 2020
Brilliant book and person and a great insigaht to Ulster and Irish rugby during that time, Well done Rory.
Brilliant book and person and a great insight to Ulster and Irish rugby during that time period, Well done Rory.
Brilliant book and person and a great insight to Ulster and Irish rugby during that time period, Well done Rory.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews