Who was the first Black captain of Great Britain in rugby league?

Clive Sullivan was the first Black captain of Great Britain in rugby league.

Sullivan, a Welsh winger, captained Great Britain during the 1970s and led the team on its successful 1972 Rugby League World Cup campaign. He was renowned for his pace, finishing ability and powerful running from the wing. His international career helped establish him as one of the most important British rugby league players of his generation.

Sullivan’s captaincy has wider historical significance because he became a prominent Black leader in a major British team sport during an era when racial representation in senior sporting roles was far less common than today. He was also a key figure for Hull, where his performances made him a club icon.

The 1972 World Cup final ended in a draw between Great Britain and Australia, with Great Britain winning the title because it had a better tournament record. Sullivan scored a famous long-range try in that final.