Phillips was born on 3 March 1935 in Prestbury.[1] He was educated at Arnold School in Blackpool.[2] He then went on to study history at Oxford University, Trinity College, where he played rugby representing the university.
Phillips made his international debut on 1 February 1958 at Twickenham in the England vs Australia match.[1] Of the 25 matches he played for his national side he was on the winning side on 11 occasions.[1] Phillips was known for his running skills and speed that could challenge defences.[3]
He played his final match for England on 21 March 1964 at Murrayfield in the Scotland vs England match.[1]
Rugby administrator
Since retirement from playing rugby, Phillips has been active as an administrator. He was President of the Rugby Football Union in 2004/5, during which time he tried to play peacemaker between the squabbling between the chairman of the RFU's management board Graeme Cattermole, and the union's chief executive Francis Baron.[4] Phillips has also served on the International Rugby Board. He is currently actively involved in the administration of Fylde Rugby Club.[2]
