Tributes flood in following death of Scottish rugby legend Scott Hastings
The celebrated centre passed away aged 61 after complications from cancer treatment
Tributes are pouring in to Scotland rugby great Scott Hastings, following his death at the age of 61.
The British and Irish Lions centre won 65 caps in an 11-year Test career that began in 1986, and was part of the most recent Scotland team to win the Grand Slam in 1990.
A statement released by his son, Corey, and daughter, Kerry-Anne, revealed that he died due to complications arising from cancer treatment.
Hastings announced in 2022 that he had been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Rugby legend "passed away peacefully surrounded by family"
“We are saddened to inform you that Scott passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the morning of Sunday May 17,” the statement read.
“This also marked his late wife Jenny’s birthday which speaks louder than words that he is safe and with his beloved Jenny.
“Scott was undergoing cancer treatment and due to complications deteriorated extremely quickly.
“Despite every effort by the incredible team at the Western General ICU, he passed away peacefully and pain free.
“At this time, the family ask everyone to give them space to process and manage their energies and ask for their privacy to be respected.
Hastings, the younger brother of former Scotland captain, Gavin, was selected for the 1989 and 1993 Lions tours and made two Test appearance against the Wallabies.
He made his international debut against France and hung up his boots after facing England in 1997. After retiring from the game, he became a well respected broadcaster.
"Whatever jersey Scott wore, he just made it better"
Scotland rugby union head coach Gregor Townsend, a former teammate, has called Scott Hastings an "iconic figure", while former Scotland and Lions Head Coach Sir Ian McGeechan said: “Whatever jersey Scott wore, he just made it better.”
Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney also paid tribute, saying: “I am terribly saddened to hear about the death of Scott Hastings and extend my deepest sympathies to his family.
“Scott will rightly be remembered as one of the greats of Scottish rugby. He was a true sportsman, a force of nature and an example to all.
“I know that Scott will be sorely missed by all who knew him and by those who admired him.”
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