Biography
Clifford Isaac Morgan, known as Cliff Morgan, was born on April 7, 1930, in Trebanog, Rhondda, Wales. He came from a mining family and attended Tonyrefail Grammar School before going on to Cardiff University. Morgan made his mark in the rugby world playing as a fly-half. His natural balance, strength, line-kicking ability, and acceleration made him a standout player. After his rugby career, Morgan transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, becoming a beloved commentator, presenter, and BBC executive. He passed away on August 29, 2013, at the age of 83.
Teams Played For and Years
- Cardiff RFC (1949–1958)
- Bective Rangers (1955–1956)
- Barbarians (1950–1958)
International Caps
- Wales: 29 caps (1951–1958)
- British Lions: 4 caps (1955)
Key Moments in His Rugby Career
- First Cap for Wales (1951): Morgan debuted against Ireland, playing opposite his hero Jack Kyle.
- 1952 Grand Slam: Part of the Welsh team that won the Grand Slam.
- Historic Victories (1953): Led both Cardiff and Wales to victories over the touring All Blacks.
- 1955 British Lions Tour: Distinguished himself on the Lions tour to South Africa, where his try at Ellis Park contributed to a memorable 23–22 victory.
- Wales Captaincy (1956): Became captain of Wales following the successful Lions tour.
- Last Game (1958): Played his final first-class game for the Barbarians against East Africa.
Broadcasting Career Highlights
- BBC Wales: Joined as Sports Organiser in 1960.
- ITV’s This Week: Spent two years as editor in the mid-1960s.
- BBC Sport Programmes: Produced and edited Grandstand and Sportsnight With Coleman.
- A Question of Sport: Original team captain from 1970.
- Head of BBC Radio Sport and Outside Broadcasts: 1974.
- Head of BBC Television Sport and Outside Broadcasts: 1976–1987.
- Radio Presenter: Presented BBC Radio 2’s These You Have Loved and other programmes.