John James Williams played a pivotal role in the Lions 1974 tour to South Africa. His unrivalled pace saw him score a remarkable 12 tries in 12 appearances. In the provincial game against South West District he equalled David Duckham's record of scoring six tries in one game. He was selected to tour again in 1977 and played in the first three Tests. An injury to his hamstring in the third test prematurely ended his tour.