From: The Australian November 10, 2011 12:00AM


THE youngest Wallaby, Brian Ford, who played one Test in 1957, has died at 72.

Ford is the only man to have played for Australia at a younger age than current star James O'Connor. He debuted for the Wallabies against New Zealand aged 18 years and three months.

O'Connor, who debuted against Italy in 2008 at 18 years and four months, is the only player to have come close to the record.

Ford moved to Brisbane from Sydney after World War II, playing his club rugby on the wing with Southern Districts.

He gained Test selection when Wallabies winger Ken McDonald broke his arm but was overlooked for national honours for the rest of his career.

He retired in 1960 after suffering a back injury playing for the Australian Barbarians against the All Blacks.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news...-1226190628078