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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Robert Kitson

‘The road not taken haunts me to this day’: David Bishop on a rugby career full of regret

David Bishop on the break against Australia in 1984, which was to be his only cap for Wales.
David Bishop on the break against Australia in 1984, which was to be his only cap for Wales. Photograph: Bob Thomas/Bob Thomas Sports Photography/Getty Images

Imagine, for a moment, the following scenario. Having broken his neck in a freak rugby accident and avoided paralysis by a millimetre, the player concerned is back for a meeting with his spinal consultant. The specialist advice is crystal clear. Make the most of your second chance and, if you fancy staying alive, never do either of the following again: dive off a high board or resume playing rugby.

And now just imagine being the kind of guy who leaves the room and immediately nips home to pick up his swimming trunks before heading to the nearest swimming pool. Who puts on the swimmers, climbs up to the highest platform and dives straight off. Not once but twice. The rationale being that, if he survives, there will be no reason not to give rugby another go.

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