World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont has paid tribute to New Zealand great and World Rugby Hall of Famer Colin Meads, who passed away this week at the age of 81 following a brave battle with cancer.
Meads’ international career spanned 14 years, during which time he amassed 55 test caps, scored seven tries and forged a reputation as a no-nonsense, hard-as-nails symbol of his beloved country. He was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2014.
Beaumont said: “Colin was one of the true greats of our game. Few players through history have achieved legendary status but, without a doubt, ‘Pinetree’ has done that and he will always remain a rugby icon in King Country, all over New Zealand and across the rugby-playing world. I remember watching him play for New Zealand on their 1963-64 European tour and I went to see him in action when they beat North-Western Counties 12-3 in Manchester.
“He will be remembered as someone who genuinely loved the game. On the field, he was a fierce competitor who epitomised the physical and mental toughness required to play for the All Blacks, while off it he was a rugby man through and through, someone who cared deeply about the game and those who played it. He was generous with his time and always ready to pass on the benefit of his considerable knowledge and insight. In a land of rugby giants, he stands tall as one of the all-time greats.
“While his passing will be mourned wherever rugby is played, our thoughts are with his wife, Verna, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and extended group of family and friends.”