Born: c.1886
Died: c.1965
Test record: 0 Tests
Tours: 1919 tour of Australia

Kohinoor prop/second-rower John Brown holds the distinction of being the first player to represent New Zealand from the West Coast, which would soon become a heartland rugby league region.

Brown switched from rugby union when league launched on the West Coast in 1915. He was selected for New Zealand’s tour of Australia in 1919 – the country’s first international foray since the outbreak of World War I – and played in two matches: victories over Tamworth and Ispwich.

The veteran represented West Coast against the touring England team in 1920.