Brendan Gallagher: Furious little bull who was as hard as nails

Brendan Gallagher: Furious little bull who was as hard as nails

Imagine being a French rugby international in the tumultuous decade between 1971 and 1981, with huge Five Nations clashes every year, including against Wales, New Zealand, and Australia.

Consider also the legendary volatility of the French selectors and the demands of the French club season, which took a toll on battered bodies.

Given all that, we offer a standing ovation to Roland Bertranne, who passed away last week aged 75.

Miraculous

Between 1971 to 1981, Bertranne achieved great things in French rugby.

Author's summary: Tribute to Roland Bertranne, a French rugby legend.

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The Rugby Paper The Rugby Paper — 2025-10-15