Red Devils icon and Welsh dual-code rugby international star David Watkins MBE has died aged 81.
David ‘Dai’ Watkins died yesterday (Sunday 3 September), after a lifetime of service to Rugby Union and Rugby League, playing for Newport and Salford Red Devils.
Described as “one of the best cross-code converts from Wales”, the Blain-born star made more than 400 appearances for the Devils and scored almost 3,000 points as they were crowned champions twice in three seasons during the 1970s.
Joining the club for a record sum on £15,000 in 1967, Watkins’ professional career began at Newport, where he went on to win 21 caps for Wales and toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions.
In a post, Salford Red Devils said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of club icon, David Watkins. One of the very greatest to represent our club, and to ever play our game. All our thoughts go out to David’s family and friends at this truly difficult time.”
Later in life, Watkins went on to coach Britain’s 1977 World Cup Final team, before taking charge of Wales.
A statement from the Wales Rugby Football League read: “Everyone at Wales Rugby League was sad to hear about the passing of David Watkins MBE, one of our greatest ever players. He was aged 81.
“Dai, as he was affectionately known, is recognised as one of the greatest Welshmen to have ever pulled on a rugby shirt.”
After being awarded an MBE for services to Rugby League Football in 1986, Watkins transitioned into media work, and was appointed chairman of Newport RFC.
Watkins was also patron of the Wales Rugby League and inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame in 2000.
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