RWC #49: George North becomes youngest scorer at World Cup

Wales’ mountain of a winger was 19 years and 166 days against Namibia in 2011

If Wales are to match their showing from four years ago and perhaps go a step further in the 2015 World Cup then the health of George North will be paramount to doing so.

Having been plagued by head injuries picked up playing for both Wales and Northampton Saints the giant winger was forced to take a month out of the game on medical advice, à la Johnny Sexton.

Man mountain North seems like a veteran of Warren Gatland’s side, having played pivotal roles in back to back Six Nations title wins in 2012 and 2013 as well as helping the Lions win the 2013 test series down under against Australia.

But while he gives the impression of being an elder statesman, North is still only 23-years-old, and he prepares for his second World Cup as the tournament’s youngest ever scorer.

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Aged 19 years and 166 days North crossed the line twice for Wales in their 81-7 Pool D win over Namibia in New Plymouth at the 2011 World Cup.

For the first North, a second half replacement for Aled Brew, takes a short ball from Lloyd Williams on a perfect angle, stepping and breaking two tackles before crashing over the line.

For his second he took a pass from Liam Byrne after the fullback had scythed his way across the pitch from well within his own half.

Instead of looking for the outside, North straightens and bullocks his way through the heart of the Namibian defence. The epitome of bulked up, modern wing play.

Patrick Madden

Patrick Madden

Patrick Madden is a former sports journalist with The Irish Times