Centre Stage

Jamie Roberts is a legendary rugby player in a nation of rugby heroes. He is a qualified doctor with a thirst for knowledge and a curiosity about the world around him. In his first full season with the Cardiff Blues, he was picked by new Wales coach Warren Gatland in the Grand Slam-winning side of 2008. He has won 97 Test caps and played for clubs in Paris, London, and Cape Town. He has had to overcome a fractured skull and juggle the competing demands of university life and professional rugby.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

In a nation renowned for its rugby heroes, Jamie Roberts has etched his name into the annals of greatness. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches and weighing a formidable 17 stone, he is a physical specimen honed to endure the rigors of the rugby arena. Yet, beyond the confines of the sport, he exudes a gentle and contemplative nature, displaying a remarkable contrast.

Roberts' journey in rugby began to take shape during his first full season with the Cardiff Blues. His talent and dedication caught the eye of new Wales coach Warren Gatland, who included him in the Grand Slam-winning side of 2008. Despite his relatively early tenure in the national team, he emerged as a standout player during the 2009 Lions tour, earning the prestigious Player of the Series accolade. His impressive international career continued, culminating in a remarkable 97 Test caps and stints with prestigious clubs in Paris, London, and Cape Town.

However, Roberts' path to rugby stardom was not without its challenges. He endured a fractured skull, among a litany of injuries, and had to navigate the intricate balance between the demands of university life and the rigors of professional rugby. Throughout his career, he had to juggle the euphoria of Six Nations success with the heartache of World Cup disappointments and the frustration of facing southern hemisphere teams. Major trophies at club level remained elusive, adding an extra layer of complexity to his journey.

In this captivating and candid autobiography, Jamie Roberts delves into the intricacies of life on tour, in boot camps, and within the vibrant dressing rooms inhabited by legendary figures such as Mike Phillips, Andy Powell, Shaun Edwards, Martyn Williams, Brian O Driscoll, and Johnny Sexton. He shares his insights on the impact of concussion in rugby, critiques the professional structure in Wales, and emphasizes the significance of old-school team bonding.

Through his experiences and perspectives, Roberts offers a unique window into the world of rugby, shedding light on the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that have shaped his remarkable career. His story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of athletes who refuse to be defined by their physical prowess alone, and who strive to excel both on and off the field.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529368833