A rugby legend has left us: Grant Batty, the former All Blacks winger, has passed away at the age of 74. His death, which occurred in Queensland, Australia, on Friday, has left a void in the rugby community.
"Grant Batty, All Black #715, has left an indelible mark on our hearts and the sport. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones," New Zealand Rugby expressed in a heartfelt statement.
Batty's rugby career spanned from 1972 to 1977, during which he played a total of 56 matches, including 15 Test matches. His journey began in Greytown, but it was in Wellington that he made his professional rugby debut in 1970.
Despite his small stature - standing at just 165cm and weighing around 65kg - Batty was a force to be reckoned with on the field. His speed and fearless attitude made him a fan favorite, earning him the nickname "pocket rocket."
One of Batty's most memorable moments came in 1977 when he scored an intercept try against the British Lions at Athletic Park. This try, his final one for the All Blacks, solidified his legacy.
In total, Batty scored an impressive 45 tries at the international level before an untimely knee injury cut his career short at the age of 25. Undeterred, he moved to Australia and continued his involvement in rugby as a coach and manager.
Steve Lancaster, the acting chief executive of New Zealand Rugby, described Batty as a "highly skilled player of his era." He added, "His bravery and determination inspired many, and his impact on the game will be forever remembered."
Tony Giles, the chief executive of Wellington Rugby, echoed these sentiments, saying, "Grant was a massive part of our rugby family. His contribution to Wellington Rugby and the Marist St Pats community will be deeply missed."
New Zealand rugby has extended its support to Batty's friends, family, and former teammates during this difficult time.
And this is where it gets controversial: some may argue that Batty's impact extended beyond the rugby field. His fearless attitude and determination off the field inspired many, especially in the face of adversity. What do you think? Is there more to Batty's legacy than just his rugby skills? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
