He played for Cambridge University.[2]
He played for Scotland Possibles in their trial match against Scotland Probables in January 1933, the Glasgow Herald noting that the comparison to the Probables full back Kenneth Walker Marshall:[3]
Of the two full backs, Kenneth Walker Marshall is neater, faster and safer in gathering the ball. David Brown, owing to this powerful physique, is better than Marshall in getting clear of a mess whether of his own, or another's making. It was noticeable at Murrayfield that Brown was able to kick for touch even when an opponent was on top of him, and usually it was the opponent that was bowled over by the impact.
The Herald went on to note that neither full back was perfect, Brown could have done with Marshall's agility and pace; and Marshall could have used Brown's weight and power.[3] Nevertheless, despite the Possibles 21–9 defeat, it was Brown that the selectors chose for international recognition, with Marshall having to wait to the following year for his selection.
He was capped 3 times for Scotland in 1933.[4]
He won all three matches he played and guided Scotland to the triple crown that year.[4]