David Duckham: England and Lions great dies aged 76

Duckham won 36 caps for from 1969 to 1976 and retired as the nation’s second all-time highest try-scorer

David Duckham has died at the age of 76 (PA) (PA Archive)

England great David Duckham has died aged 76, his former club Coventry have announced.

Duckham won 36 caps for from 1969 to 1976, initially as a centre before going on to make his mark as a dynamic wing who brought flair to an otherwise conservative side.

He retired as the nation’s second all-time highest try-scorer behind Cyril Low with 10, a significant feat given England finished bottom of the Five Nations in four of the seven years he played.

The 1971 triumphant British and Irish Lions tour to New Zealand provided a better platform to demonstrate his brilliance and he took full advantage, playing in three of the four Tests.

In the midweek game against West Coast/Buller he scored six tries and he finished the tour with 11 touchdowns in 16 appearances.

His mesmerising contribution to the 1973 Barbarians’ famous 23-11 victory over the All Blacks at Cardiff Arms Park earned him the nickname ‘Dai’ from Wales fans in appreciation of his swashbuckling style.

“Coventry Rugby is incredibly sad to learn of the news that David Duckham, ex-Coventry, England and British and Irish Lions player, has died, aged 76,” read a statement from his only club.

“Donned as arguably the ‘greatest’ ever Coventry player, our thoughts go out to David’s family at this difficult time.

“The club will demonstrate a minute’s silence prior to kick-off at this Saturday’s match against Jersey and will be looking to organise a celebration of life for David, subject to conversations with the family. Rest in peace, David.”