Career
He had formerly been an Australian rugby union international. His position of choice was usually at centre. After being introduced to rugby during his secondary education at Epping Boys" High School, he played first grade rugby union with Eastwood in the New South Wales competition coached by former Wallaby John Ballesty and proceeded to make a total of fifteen test appearances for the Australian Wallabies side between 1985 and 1987 prior to switching to rugby league the following year.
Papworth elected to sign for the Eastern Suburbs side at the commencement of the 1988 season but his progress was hampered with a series of injuries.
Over the next five years in rugby league Papworth"s considerable talents were rarely on show. Successive breaks to his jaw, shoulders and knees limited his game time to but seven appearances.
At the conclusion of the 1991 season Papworth announced his decision to retire. Papworth is now a player agent for both league and union.
He is also a commentator for the Shute Shield on American Broadcasting Company Television and occasionally for the Super Rugby rugby union competition on Fox Sports (Australia).