Roger Baird

Distinguished by a celebrated career on the wing, Roger Baird earned a Melrose Sevens winner’s medal with the Kelso sevens team, an early accomplishment that saw his exceptional talent in the sevens format recognized by Bill McLaren. He further distinguished himself by establishing a scoring record for the South of Scotland rugby union team. Baird’s international career commenced in 1979, when he secured his first Scotland ‘B’ cap against Ireland ‘B’. He made his full senior debut for Scotland in 1981, participating in a notable 24-15 victory over Australia at Murrayfield Stadium, where he replaced Bruce Hay on the wing.

Between 1981 and 1988, Baird accrued 27 caps for Scotland, consistently playing on the wing throughout his national tenure. A cornerstone of his career was his ever-present status during the 1983 British Lions tour to New Zealand, where he participated in all four Test matches. During this prestigious tour, he scored six tries across 11 appearances, including one Test try against New Zealand, marking a unique distinction of scoring for the Lions but not for his national side during his 27 caps. He was also a pivotal member of the Scotland team that achieved the historic 1984 Five Nations Grand Slam and secured groundbreaking away victories against Wales and Australia in 1982.

His commitment is evidenced by his involvement in fundraising challenges for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, supporting crucial research and care. He also contributed to the Wooden Spoon charity by opening a life skills kitchen, reinforcing his dedication to community development and the sport he has served throughout his distinguished career.