All Black legend Colin "Pinetree' Meads has died at the age of 81, a loss which will be mourned throughout the rugby‑playing world.
Meads, was the most famous of amateur era All Blacks, an icon who remained a highly popular figure in New Zealand and abroad decades after his outstanding playing career ended.
In 133 matches for the All Blacks between 1957 and 1971, the King Country lock played 55 tests and became recognised throughout the world as the face of New Zealand rugby.
At 1.92m and 102kg, he was small by today's standards but always gave the impression of being a giant and complemented his natural athleticism with a rare ferocity.
Although he began his international career as a flanker, it was as a lock that he played most of his rugby
In August 2016, it was announced that the rugby great had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
Sir Colin's last major public appearance was in Te Kuiti in June, when a statue of the 81‑year‑old was unveiled on his hometown, a great occasion for one of the great rugby players.
Meanwhile the All Blacks will host the Wallabies in next Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship clash.
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