John Basnett

in the 1982 Challenge Cup Final during the 1981–82 season at Wembley Stadium, London on Saturday 1 May 1982, and played left wing in the 9–18 defeat by Hull F.C.

During the 1983–84 season, Basnett played left wing in Widnes' 8–12 defeat by Barrow in the 1983 Lancashire Cup Final at Central Park, Wigan on Saturday 1 October 1983, and played left wing in the 19–6 victory over Wigan in the 1984 Challenge Cup Final at Wembley Stadium, London on Saturday 5 May 1984, in front of a crowd of 80,116.

[8] Basnett played left wing (replaced by substitute Carl Gibson) in Leeds' 14–15 defeat by St. Helens in the 1987–88 John Player Special Trophy Final during the 1987–88 season at Central Park, Wigan on Saturday 9 January 1988.

After one season at Leeds, Basnett was involved in a car crash, and retired due to the injuries suffered in the incident.

Lewis praised Basnett's efforts in keeping his opposite number Dale Shearer quiet, although Great Britain ultimately lost the third Ashes test 24-15 played at the Central Park ground in Wigan.