He made eight appearances for the Rhodesia national team, and played for the Junior Springboks against the touring British Lions in 1962.
[3] In October 1962, Lake agreed to join English rugby league club Wigan.
[4] With Billy Boston and Frank Carlton established as Wigan's first choice wingers, Lake's appearances were limited during his first season at the club.
[5] In 1963–64, he played more regularly for the first team, and scored 43 tries during the season, a total only exceeded by Swinton's John Stopford.
[6] In 1964–65, Lake was the top try scorer in British rugby league, touching down 40 times during the season.