Wales and British & Irish Lions great David (Dai) Watkins has passed away at the age of 81.
The fly-half was an accomplished dual-code international, earning his first Wales cap in union in 1963 before switching to league four years later.
During his time in the 15-man game, Watkins (pictured above with Lions greats Jack Matthews, left, and John Dawes, centre) made an immediate impact, making his Test debut against England at the age of just 20.
That was the year that he played a key role in club side Newport beating the All Blacks, and he came up against New Zealand again in 1966 for The British & Irish Lions.
It was a remarkable rise for the youngster who hailed originally from the mining community of Blaina in north Gwent.
He only picked up a rugby ball for the first time at 15 but his talent was quickly apparent for all to see.
We are extremely saddened to hear that David “Dai” Watkins, one of the greatest players the club has ever produced, has passed away at the age of 81. pic.twitter.com/BPQYsPjCWI
— Newport RFC (@NewportRFC) September 3, 2023
Within a year of breaking into the Wales side, he had helped them to a share of the Five Nations title with Scotland in 1964, before they won the competition outright the following year, along with a Triple Crown.
So it was no surprise when Watkins earned selection for the 1966 Tour of Australia and New Zealand under coach John Robins.
While on Tour, Watkins played a remarkable 21 matches, including starting all six Tests at fly-half.
He was at his best in the 2-0 series win over the Wallabies, scoring a try and a drop goal in the 31-0 victory in the second, while Watkins captained the Lions in two of the six Tests on Tour.
After returning from that Lions Tour, Watkins faced stiff competition for his place in the Wales side by another Lions great, Barry John.
Their rivalry did not last long however, with Watkins making the decision to swap codes, moving to Salford in rugby league and becoming the club’s all-time record points-scorer.
The thoughts of everyone at The British & Irish Lions are with Dai’s family and friends.
