Austin Sheppard

For the American football player, see Austin Shepherd.

Austin Sheppard (born 1 May 1950) is an English former rugby union international who represented England in two Test matches during the 1980s.

Austin Sheppard

Date of birth	(1950-05-01) 1 May 1950 (age 75)
Place of birth	Bristol, England
School	Colston’s School, Bristol
Rugby union career
Position(s) Prop International career Years Team Apps (Points) 1981–85 England 2 (0)

A Bristol native, Sheppard is a graduate of Colston's School. He played rugby as a prop and appeared in numerous games for Bristol, including the club's 1982–83 John Player Cup triumph.^[1]

Sheppard, who was a funeral director by profession, debuted for England in a 1981 Five Nations Test against Wales in Cardiff.^[2] It wasn't until 1985 that he got another opportunity, with Wales again his opponent.^[3] He remained in the England squad for the tour of New Zealand that followed.^[4]

One of his sons Max has followed in his footsteps but in coaching rugby. By taking North Bristol RFC undefeated in the 2022/23 season which was capped off with a trip to Twickenham with them winning the Pappa Johns National Cup. ^[5]

See also

• List of England national rugby union players