Although never capped at international level in his own country, in 1888 Stuart was chosen to tour New Zealand and Australia as part of the first British Isles team.
[2] Stuart first came to note as a rugby player when he joined Cardiff Football Club during their fledgling years in 1883.
[3] In 1886 Stuart and fellow Cardiff player William "Buller" Stadden stated that they intended to join English team Dewsbury.
Although Cardiff later complained that this was backdoor professionalism, no evidence was found to prove that money had been exchanged and no charges were brought.
In 1888, Stuart was approached to join the first British overseas touring rugby team, on a trip to Australia and New Zealand.