A former captain, team manager, chairman, and president of Newport RFC who they referred to as “one of the greatest players the club has ever produced” passed away, the club announced.
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Before tonight’s match, when Watkins’ old team faces Pontypool RFC to open their Premiership season, there will be a moment of silence.
Watkins, also referred to as “Dai” by many, participated in the historic triumph over New Zealand in 1963 and won the Welsh Championship in his first year at Newport in 1961.
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Only Watkins’ Newport defeated the All Blacks during their 1963 tour, and the club was awarded the Freedom of the City of Newport on the occasion of the victory’s 50th anniversary.
David Watkins: Wales rugby legend dies aged 81
The legendary rugby player from Wales, David Watkins, who was the only person to lead the British Lions in both rugby union and rugby league, passed away on Sunday at the age of 81.
Watkins, a superb fly-half, was also a member of Newport’s squad in 1963, when the Welsh team famously upset the visiting All Blacks 3-0.
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