Author(s): John Matheson

Rugby

On both sides of the Tasman, it's been suggested Beni Marshall wouldn't be out of place in the best-player-ever contest. This classic tale of the rise, fall and rise again of one of Australasia's greatest sporting talents, Marshall's rags-to-riches story captures the hard early years growing up fatherless in rural New Zealand, his unlikely journey to Australia's Gold Coast to become a schoolboy league phenomenon, and his move to the West Tigers in 2003. Interviews with teammates, coaches, opponents and commentators follow the inspirational story of how Marshall helped steer Tigers to the 2005 NRL title. Tested many times since, with injuries and scandal, Marshall has always risen above the mire. While written off as a one-hit wonder and being labelled a liability because of mounting injuries, Marshall helped the Kiwis stun the Australians by winning the World Cup in 2008. Promoted to Kiwis captain and a famous Four Nations title in 2010, he peaked as a player mesmerizing opponents. The book finishes by celebrating NRL's 2011 Face of Rugby League. Benji Marshall could have been just another statistic in rural New Zealand. Instead, he has carved a niche for himself in the world's toughest sport as one of its most resilient and creative forces.