A sporting icon has sadly died at the age of 92 just weeks after the passing of his wife as tributes pour in for World Cup-winning hero
A World Cup winner has sadly died at the age of 92 just weeks after the passing of his wife as tributes pour in for one of sport’s greatest icons.
Sir Billy Boston, who became the first player in rugby league’s 130-year history to receive a knighthood, died just weeks after the passing of his beloved wife, Lady Joan.
The Welshman will be remembered as one of the best players to ever play the sport. He played 15 years at Wigan before ending his career at Blackpool Borough. Boston also represented Great Britain and won the 1960 World Cup.
JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
Announcing his death, a Wales Rugby Union statement read: “Sir Billy Boston, one of the best loved and most iconic figures in the history of Welsh sport, has passed away peacefully at the age of 92.
“The most famous son of Tiger Bay, he died overnight in hospital in his adopted home for the past 74 years, Wigan. His death came only four days after the funeral of his wife, Lady Joan, to whom he had been married for 70 years.”
The BBC’s rugby league commentator Matt Newsum paid tribute, saying: “It is testament to the star power of Sir Billy Boston that even 56 years after he last graced a rugby pitch, young fans are fully aware of the legend that is the Welshman from Cardiff’s Tiger Bay.
“He had a uniquely unifying effect on a normally partisan and tribal rugby league community. It will take some getting used to, the empty seat at the Brick. He will be missed but certainly not forgotten.”
Wigan Warriors posted: “Today we mourn the loss of a true sporting icon, Sir Billy Boston, who has passed away surrounded by his family.
“Rugby League’s first knight, a Wigan legend, and “Everybody’s Hero,” his legacy on and off the field will endure for eternity. Rest in peace, Sir Billy.”
Boston scored close to 500 tries in 488 appearances for Wigan Warriors, where his exploits were spotted by Great Britain, making his first international appearance in the 1954 tour of Australia and New Zealand.
He became the first black British player to tour down under and was among the first to be inducted into the rugby league hall of fame.