1974 (first edition). Hardcover with dustcover, 256 pages

Rust spots in front and back and on edges. The pages are neat and clean and the binding is tight. The dustcover has wear and tear.

Nice Guys Come Second is the title of his autobiography- and that says it all about both the man and the player. Winners take all, was his approach to rugby, and Doc Craven said about him, John was one who never apologised for his belief that rugby was played to be won. He would attack with great determination and, with his physical power and blistering speed for a big man of over six feet tall, his opponents found it a daunting task to contain him. Quick off the mark, Gainsford could burst past the inside of his opponent or fly past him on the outside break, leaving him hopelessly stranded. Teammate HO de Villiers said of him, Johns speed, brawn and exceptional elusiveness for a man his size were major assets, but I think the real strength of the man was his almost arrogant confidence and his incredibly powerful competitive drive. He believed there was nobody better than him and simply made it his business to transform that belief into reality.