I think the term Journeyman has taken on a negative meaning when in fact it was originally a term of respect and I’d say the dictionary definition is very appropriate for Wilkes career.
A tradesman who served his apprenticeship and produced a high quality of work without being excellent.
Think that sums Wilkes up, he was a good solid pro who at every club he represented offered value on the field. He clearly loved the basic principles and ideology of the game, run hard and straight and tackle hard.
If you have 4 Wilkes style Props in your team you are never going to win SL but you wouldn’t be relegated either.
As others have said too an articulate bloke off the field and planned for life after rugby moving into the world of construction Health and Safety I believe.
