Meet Jim Mills, the legendary rugby hardman known for being sent off a staggering 20 times! Standing at 6ft 4in and weighing 18st, Jim was a force to be reckoned with and became an icon in the rugby league world. His reputation for toughness was sealed when he was handed a lifetime ban from New Zealand, the world’s greatest rugby nation, after an infamous incident where he stomped on an opponent’s head. Jim admits, “I have to admit it looked bloody terrible on the telly.” That one act during a 1975 clash with New Zealand in Swansea left a lasting mark on his career. Despite the bans, his prowess on the field earned him legendary status.
But here’s where it gets interesting—Jim and his ‘victim,’ John Greengrass, eventually buried the hatchet and struck up a friendship years later! It all began when John, during a trip to the UK, insisted on meeting up with Jim, despite the history between them. The visit turned into a reconciliation, and Jim and John have become unlikely friends, even though Jim still hasn’t taken up John’s invitation to visit New Zealand.
Jim’s rugby journey started unexpectedly; he was initially a football goalkeeper until a chance encounter led him to rugby league. His career saw him dominate at clubs like Halifax and Widnes, and he was even part of Great Britain’s legendary Ashes-winning squad in 1970.
Beyond the field, Jim made a name for himself running nightclubs in Widnes for over 30 years. Now, as an 81-year-old, Jim’s story is one of transformation—from feared enforcer to friendly pub owner, with a tale or two to tell.