A Diamond in the Rough

A little-known NZ rugby book has received critical acclaim in the UK. Inside French Rugby: Confessions of a Kiwi Mercenary offers an insight into author John Daniell’s experiences as a professional player, and is described as a “gem off the beaten track” in the Observer. “Daniell depicts it all with a beautifully understated humour and affection, while still managing to shake his head in disbelief at some of the excesses of his confreres,” reads the review. “You may have to delve behind the more prominently positioned rugby books to find this one, but it will reward you long after the clamour surrounding the others has drifted away on the wind.” Inside French Rugby is published by Wellington’s Awa Press.