Graham Price was a Welsh tighthead prop and member of Pontypool's famous front row, who set a Lions record of 12 consecutive Test appearances.
Graham Price MBE was born on 24 November 1951 in Moascar, Egypt, and was raised in Pontypool, Wales, where he attended West Monmouth School before studying civil engineering at the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology in Cardiff. He joined Pontypool RFC after leaving school, playing tighthead prop. Price formed part of the legendary Pontypool front row, known as the "Viet Gwent," alongside hooker Bobby Windsor and loosehead Charlie Faulkner — the trio became, in January 1975, the first entire club front row ever selected together to play for Wales, a rare feat in international rugby. Price marked his Wales debut against France in Paris that year with a spectacular length-of-the-field try. Price went on to win 41 caps for Wales, playing in two Grand Slam-winning campaigns, and earned a then-record 12 Test caps for the British and Irish Lions — a mark second only to Willie John McBride in Lions history — touring New Zealand in 1977 and 1983 and South Africa in 1980, playing 12 consecutive Lions Tests across those tours. Price was renowned as one of the finest scrummaging technicians of his generation, and after retiring became a respected figure in Welsh rugby, later inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of a career built on the formidable, unyielding Pontypool pack he helped define.
Part of famous Pontypool front row "Viet Gwent"; Lions record for a prop
How They Played
Price was renowned for his exceptional scrummaging technique and mobility around the field, unusual for a prop of his era. He possessed outstanding lineout throwing skills and was considered one of the most technically proficient tight-head props of his generation.
Lasting Impact
Price helped establish the template for the modern prop forward, combining traditional scrummaging power with athletic mobility and ball-handling skills.
Career Honours
- Wales Grand Slams (1976, 1978)
- three Lions tours
- Pontypool "Viet Gwent" front row legend
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pontypridd | 1975–1991 | — | 0 | #3 |
 Wales | — | 41 | — | — |