Former England rugby captain Richard Sharp OBE has sadly passed away at the age of 87. The ex-fly-half died on Monday.
Born in India in 1938, Sharp was raised in England and educated in Devon before attending Balliol College, Oxford. He began his club rugby career with Redruth in Cornwall and even made a mark in cricket, playing for Cornwall in the Minor Counties Championship from 1957 to 1970.
After his stint with Redruth, Sharp played for Wasps and Bristol, and earned call-ups to represent the Barbarians and the Royal Navy. Sharp made his England debut in 1960 and over seven years, won 14 caps for his country.
The former No. 10 quickly ascended to the England captaincy and led his team to Five Nations triumph in 1963. During that victorious campaign, England achieved their first win in Cardiff against Wales in nearly three decades.
In that match, Sharp showcased his talent with an impressive solo try, sprinting almost 40 metres to touch down.
(Image: Evening Standard, Getty Images)
A year prior to the Five Nations success, Sharp shone for the British & Irish Lions during their South Africa Tour, scoring 45 points in 11 games. He featured in two Test matches during that tour, which South Africa won 3-0.
Following his retirement, Sharp dedicated his time to promoting sport across the south west and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 1986 New Year Honours.
Redruth Rugby Club has announced the sad news of Richard Sharp’s passing on Monday, 3rd November 2025. In a statement, they said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Sharp on Monday, 3rd November 2025.
“Richard played for Redruth, Wasps, Bristol, Royal Navy, Oxford University, Cornwall, Barbarians, England and British Lions. He also captained England. Our thoughts are with Richard’s family.”
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England Rugby expressed their condolences on social media, posting: “Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of former England captain, Richard Sharp OBE.”
The British & Irish Lions also sent their “sincere condolences to all of Sharp’s family and friends.”
Cornwall RFU chairman Steve Murley paid tribute to Sharp, saying: “Richard will be remembered not simply for the tries scored, the caps won, or the Tours undertaken, but for the person he was – quietly assured, respectfully modest, unwavering in his support for Cornwall and his sporting communities.
“His passing will be mourned by his family, his many friends in Cornish and English sport, and all who valued not only his athletic talents but his character.
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and to the communities – rugby, cricket, Cornwall – that he enriched so deeply.”