Dicky Owen - International Career

International Career

Owen was first capped for his country in a winning game against Ireland on March 16, 1901, a match notable for also seeing the international debut of Rhys Gabe. Owen's longevity as an international rugby player is quite surprising considering his slight build and the want of the Welsh Rugby Union selection committee to chop and change the formation of the national side at will. Owen was seen as a first choice by the selectors, and his ability to play with numerous differing partners kept him in the side.

Although Owen won five Triple Crowns and captained Wales on three occasions, he is most remembered as a member of the historic Welsh team that beat the original All Blacks during the New Zealand tour of Britain in 1905. During the match against the All Blacks, Owen bravely supported his seven forwards but took a heavy pounding from the New Zealand pack resulting in Owen receiving a cracked rib. Later in the match Owen would be recognised as the orchestrator of the move that led to Teddy Morgan scoring the only and winning try.

International matches played

• Australia 1908
• England 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905, 1906, 1907, 1909, 1910, 1911, 1912
• France 1908, 1909, 1910, 1911
• Ireland 1901, 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905, 1906, 1908, 1909, 1911
• New Zealand 1905
• Scotland 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905, 1906, 1907, 1909, 1911, 1912
• South Africa 1906