He played for Western Suburbs in the New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) competition.
Ratcliff made his debut for Western Suburbs against St George in Round 1 1952 scoring a hat-trick in a 31-30 victory at Kogarah Oval.
Western Suburbs would go on to win the minor premiership in 1952 and reach the grand final against South Sydney.
The match was remembered due to its controversy with claims the referee George Bishop had put a big wager on Wests winning the game.
In 1953, Western Suburbs only managed 5 wins all year and finished last on the table claiming the wooden spoon.