Wales Grand Slam 2005 - Signed by Gareth Thomas

The 2005 Six Nations was predicted to be the closest in years, with Wales, England, Ireland and France all in with shout at the title. The pundits were divided as to who would be the winner, but they all predicted that in such a close competition, a Grand Slam would be impossible.

Against this backdrop, came Wales' stunning triumph, defying all the critics to claim their first Grand Slam since 1978. What is more, their thrilling brand of high-risk rugby was a return to the golden era of the 1970's.

First up were England at the Millennium Stadium. In a nervy game, the World Champions were edged out by a brilliant long-range penalty from Gavin Henson. A week later, Italy were soundly beaten in Rome, with six different players crossing the white-wash for Wales.

Next came the biggest challenge: 2004 Grand Slam winners France, away in Paris. The French were superb in the first-half, building up a 15-6 lead at half-time that could have been a lot greater. It looked like Wales were dead and buried, their Championship hopes over for another year. But in the second-half, they staged one of the greatest fight-backs ever seen on a rugby field. Inspired by two tries from flanker Martyn Williams, the Welsh roared back into life, scoring eighteen points to France's three. The game was won and suddenly the talk was of a Welsh Grand Slam.

Scotland were easily despatched 46-22 at Murrayfield, with a superb first-half performance ensuring the game was effectively over by the break. This set-up a Championship decider with Ireland, to be held at the home of Welsh rugby, the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Although there was a strong Irish contingent in the crowd, they were drowned out by their Welsh counterparts, who seemed to channel the passionate support of the entire nation. After an anxious start, with neither side dominating, a Gethin Jenkins try in the sixteenth minute turned the game towards Wales and they grew in confidence. By contract, Ireland never got into the game, and solid kicking from Stephen Jones and Gavin Henson, combined with a Kevin Morgan try were enough to settle the match. The final whistle marked the completion of an historic Grand Slam and was the cue for wild celebrations.

Our print commemorates this amazing achievement, with memorable images from each game and of the team's celebration in Cardiff. It will stand as a permanent reminder of the most glorious days in Welsh rugby history.

Own a piece of sporting history

Be one of the lucky few to own this lasting tribute to the Welsh Grand Slam winning side of 2005.

Personally Signed

Each copy is personally signed by Gareth Thomas, the Welsh captain who led his team to Grand Slam triumph in 2005.

Strictly Limited Edition

Only 500, hand-numbered copies of this print will ever be produced. Once they have sold, no more will ever be produced.

Authenticity Guaranteed

This print has been independently authenticated by Grant Thornton using the Authenticate process. This means you can be 100% certain that the print is a strictly limited edition of 500 copies and that each one has been personally signed by Gareth Thomas.

Click here to find out more about Authenticate.