Wales and Lions great Phil Bennett has passed away aged 73 after battling a long illness.
The news was announced by the Scarlets, for whom he played 413 games and scored 2,444 points over 15 seasons.
Bennett was a key figure in Wales’ golden era, helping them win two Five Nations Grand Slams in the 1970s.
He also starred in the Lions’ historic unbeaten tour of South Africa in 1974 and produced moments of magic in his 20 appearances for the Barbarians.
The club said in a statement: “It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of club legend, former captain and Scarlets President Phil Bennett.
“Phil passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday evening surrounded by his close family.’
“Our thoughts are with Phil’s wife Pat, sons Steven and James, family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”
A global rugby icon, he was awarded the OBE in 1979 for his services to sport and inducted into World Rugby’s Hall of Fame in 2005. He was named Scarlets President in 2011.
A sculpture was recently unveiled in Phil’s home village of Felinfoel to celebrate a man who gave so much to his local community.
TRIBUTES:
We are saddened to learn of the death of Phil Bennett.
Phil toured with the Lions in 1977 and was a key member of the revered Invincibles of '74.
Our sympathies are with his family and friends at this time. He will be greatly missed.
RIP Lion #506
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) June 12, 2022
RIP Phil Bennett, 73.
One of the greatest rugby players in history.
A mercurial Welsh wizard. Very sad news.pic.twitter.com/KFp3JiClHj
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) June 12, 2022
Phil Bennett has passed away.
More than a Welsh rugby player.
Became part of the DNA of Welsh rugby.
— Paul Williams (@thepaulwilliams) June 12, 2022
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