Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams dies aged 74

Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams has died aged 74.

A fearless player known for his aggressive, attacking style, Williams played 55 times for Wales and started all eight Tests on successful Lions tours to New Zealand in 1971 and South Africa three years later.

He was respected by Wales greats such as Sir Gareth Edwards, Phil Bennett and Gerald Davies and was considered one of the best players in rugby union.

His death was announced by Bridgend Ravens, the club where Williams served as a player and club president.

“Bridgend Ravens are devastated to announce the passing of JPR Williams,” the club said in a statement on its website.

The family later said in a statement to the BBC: “JPR died peacefully today at the University Hospital of Wales, surrounded by his loving wife and four children, following a short illness following a brave battle with bacterial meningitis.

“The family requests privacy at this difficult time.”

The Bridgend statement continued: “World football icon John Peter Rhys Williams served Bridgend Ravens as a player and latterly as club chairman.

“He was capped 55 times for Wales and made eight Test appearances for the British and Irish Lions.

“Highlights of his illustrious career included winning two Schweppes Cup titles with Bridgend in 1979 and 1980 and winning three (Five Nations) Grand Slams for Wales in 1971, 1976 and 1978.

The story continues

“Following his retirement from football, JPR became a key figure in the club’s administrative team and served as Bridgend Ravens club chairman; He continued this duty until his death.

“JPR’s passing has left a huge void at the club and our thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time.”

Williams made his Wales debut against Scotland in 1969 and his final Test match against the same opponents at Murrayfield 12 years later.

A star player in Welsh rugby’s golden age in the 1970s, he was a fearless defender as well as his attacking flamboyance.

Williams was a key part of the Lions team that recorded a 2-1 series victory against New Zealand in 1971; It was a feat no Lions team has been able to repeat; He secured the series by dropping a goal in the fourth Test, which finished 14-14. success.

He was equally prominent on the 1974 tour to South Africa, where the Lions won three and drew one, displaying his quality throughout.

Williams also featured in the Barbarians’ memorable 23-11 win over New Zealand in 1973, scoring in a match remembered for his superb goal that completed a stunning length-of-the-field move from Edwards.

Williams’ club career included a memorable eight-year stint at London Wales, where the Exiles were a major force in English rugby.

“Everyone at London Welsh RFC is deeply saddened by the news this evening of the passing of rugby legend JPR Williams,” the club said.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to his friends, colleagues and family. It is a great loss for all who knew and loved him.”

Williams, who captained Wales five times, was awarded the MBE for his contributions to the sport.

And he continued playing into his early 50s, lining up for the Tondu village club and eventually calling it a day in 2003.

Meanwhile, the Lions paid a glowing tribute to Williams, describing him as “a man who inspired so many.”

“One of the greatest Lions ever,” Lions shared on X. “A man who inspired so many.

“It is with great sadness that we learn that JPR Williams has passed away at the age of 74.

“All our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

And the Barbarians said: “Such sad news as we have lost one of rugby’s greats. A man who will always have a special place in the heart and history of our club.

“Rest in peace, JPR.”

World Rugby posted on X: “One of the best players the game has ever seen. JPR Williams leaves behind an incredible legacy. “All our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Welsh Rugby Union president Terry Cobner, who played alongside Williams for Wales in the 1976 and 1978 Grand Slam campaigns, also paid tribute.

“The rugby world has lost one of the greatest players of all time, a man who revolutionized the full-back game in his 12-year international career,” Cobner told the WRU website.

“He was a defensive rock in every team he played for, an inspiration of counter-attacks and a man who feared nothing and was never a lost cause. We all thought he was ‘Mr. Indestructible’.

“Although he played in the amateur period, he was completely professional from a sporting point of view and always raised the standards in training and on the field.

“With JPR on your side, there was always a chance to win something.”