This was more than a rugby victory. It turned the tide against Australian dominance, put the northern hemisphere back in charge of the sport and perhaps even lit a beacon for the revival of all England's national sporting teams. It was a triumph earned after years of cunning planning, relentless sweat and dedication. It was won in the teeth of Down Under jeering and elevated players like Wilkinson, captain Martin Johnson and coach Clive Woodward into sporting legend.

Stephen Jones followed the whole process through to the end of England's spectacular run. As the competition progressed, Jones, who reached a 20-year landmark as a 'Sunday Times' writer and celebrated his 50th birthday during the tournament, wondered if his own fascination for the sport and for life as a reporter would survive the long and dramatic sporting experience; and whether there was a sporting tomorrow for a tired hack after covering the greatest match he was ever likely to see.

This is the story of Jonny, Johnno and England's road to stardom - a highly personal and sidelong view of a new landmark in rugby and English sport.

Stephen Jones is a previous winner of the William Hill Sports Book of the Year.