Career
Old made his debut for England against Wales in 1972 and made a further 15 appearances with his final one being against France in 1978. His 16 caps included four wins, although these were against New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and Wales. Old also played in the famous victory of the North of England over the touring All Blacks at Otley in 1979 with the English regional side running out 21-9 winners.
Old was selected for the 1974 British Lions tour to South Africa but could not displace Philosophy Bennett at fly-half.
He played in only four matches on the tour, scoring a then-record 37 points in the match against South West Districts. His tour was ended by a serious leg injury in the match against the Proteas.
Alan was also a cricketer, playing 40 Minor County matches for Durham between 1968 and 1978, one 2nd X1 appearance for Middlesex against Kent in 1970. He also played in one first-class match for Warwickshire against Cambridge University in 1969.
After the end of his playing career, Alan Old became a successful educationalist, serving as the Principal of Cleveland Technical College, having already been a master at Worksop College during his playing career.
