Former Ireland and British and Irish Lions back-row Fergus Slattery has died at the age of 77, his club Blackrock College have announced.
Widely regarded as one of Ireland’s greatest players, Slattery earned 61 caps between 1970 and 1984, captaining his country and helping them secure the Triple Crown in 1982.
He also represented the Lions on the 1971 and 1974 tours to New Zealand and South Africa.
In a tribute, Blackrock College RFC said Slattery “defined” the club jersey, praising his “extraordinary intelligence, courage and relentless competitiveness” on the field.
The club added that he played “with ferocity and grace, but without ego,” while the Irish Rugby Football Union described him as a “giant of Irish rugby” whose standards and humility continue to inspire generations.
