The Boys of Winter

The inside story of England's historic 2003 Rugby World Cup win told by the people and players who were there, published on the 20th anniversary

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*WINNER OF RUGBY BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024*
THE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

'A gripping book that brings that unforgettable match back to pulsating life' Daily Mail

'Fans will relish' The Times

England have been in four Rugby World Cup finals and only won one of them. In 2003, this team was the one that did it. And this is their story in their words.

The image of Jonny Wilkinson's last-minute winning drop goal is etched deep into the nation's consciousness. More than twenty years on, with their achievement still unmatched, the affection and respect this band of brothers command is as great as ever.

In The Boys of Winter, former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio and writer Owen Slot tell the inside story of England's triumphant 2003 Rugby World Cup through interviews with Martin Johnson, Clive Woodward, Jonny Wilkinson and all those involved, revealing how the team planned it and executed it; the iconic memories as well as the unseen moments.

But what has become of those heroes of our youth? This book also tells the story of how the tournament has shaped the lives of the team, for better and worse. For many it was the pinnacle, for some a missed opportunity and for others a curse from which they never recovered.

- Includes never-before-seen interviews with the squad and coaching staff

- Reveals how the team planned and executed the 2003 Rugby World Cup win

- Takes you inside the dressing room and onto the pitch for this historic moment

- Uncovers for the first time the impact of the achievement on the players

- Explores why this success has never been repeated

This is the definitive account of a legendary sporting moment and an examination of the costs of our dreams.