Former Irish rugby player Mike Gibson inducted in the IRB Hall of Fame
The International Rugby Board (IRB) has formally inducted Irish Lions legend, Mike Gibson, into the IRB Hall of Fame. Gibson had to wait 14 long years to achieve the honour and finally got his place among the great players of the game on May 10, 2011.
IRB initiated the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 1997 and Gibson was one of the initial fifteen chosen to be included.
On Behalf of the IRB, Former IRB Chairman, Dr Syd Millar, decorated Gibson with the gold pin and presented the commemorative cap. Miller made the announcement during the Ulster Award held at Culloden Hotel, Belfast on Tuesday. Speaking on the occasion,
Miller Said, “It is an honour to be inducting a man who I had the great pleasure of playing alongside for Ulster and Ireland.”
Speaking on the occasion, the inductee sai, "It is an honour to be inducted into the IRB Hall of Fame and to be recognised amongst an illustrious list of greats. I consider rugby to be the greatest team sport and I must give thanks to all my teammates with
whom I trained and played. Without them this would not have been possible."
Cameron Michael Henderson Gibson or commonly known as Mike Gibson was born on 3 December 1942 in Belfast. At the age of 22, Gibson made his debut for Ireland in 1964 against England at Twickenham. Ireland defeated England 18 – 5 as the career of the most
prominent Irish rugby player kick started a fascinating international career.
He made 69 international appearances for Ireland and his last international game was against Australia at Sydney. Ireland defeated Australia 9 – 3 to win the three match series 2 – 1.
Gibson started his career at the fly half position and played few games as winger. However, he attained fame in the rugby world for his performances at the centre position.
Gibson has been called a natural by many and he played the game with rare dedication and commitment, coupled with excellent timing of his attacking skills and anticipation of the defence. He was able to perform consistently for 15 years.
Widely believed to be the World’s best centre, Gibson received the order of Member of British Empire commonly known as MBE for his services to the game.
Gibson retired in 1979 and while holding the record for the highest number of appearances in tests. Out of 69 games he played for Ireland, his squad won 30, lost 30 and played the remaining as draw. Gibson scored 112 points during this time which includes
nine tries, 16 penalties, 7 conversions and six-drop goals.
Irish centre also played for British and Irish Lions and toured with them five times. Gibson retired from the professional rugby in 1984 and started a career as a solicitor.
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