England rugby fly-half Richard Sharp, February 18, 1960. Photo: Getty ImagesDashing former England captain Richard Sharp was not only a sports star; he lent his name to author Bernard Cornwell’s Napoleonic hero Richard Sharpe. Born in India and raised in England, Sharp grew up in Redruth and made his name at the Cornish town’s club before representing Wasps and Bristol. Described as an elegant fly-half, Sharp is regularly featured in any discussion of England’s best ever first-five. While playing rugby, Sharp also rose through the ranks of the armed forces, becoming an officer in the Royal Marines.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 27, 2025 03:35 UTC