Former All Blacks captain Stu Wilson passes away aged 70

REMEMBERED: All Black Stu Wilson in action against the Springboks during the South Africa tour of New Zealand 1981. Pic:: Photosport.co.nz

Former All Blacks captain Stu Wilson died on Sunday at the age of 70, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) said.

Wilson made his debut in 1976 and played in 34 tests, scoring 19 test tries and becoming the first wing to captain the All Blacks when he led the side in their tour of Scotland and England in 1983.

He was also part of their 4-0 series win over the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand in 1983, scoring a hat-trick of tries in the fourth test. Wilson was part of the New Zealand side who lost 12-0 to Munster in Thomond Park in 1978.

Former All Blacks loose forward Murray Mexted said his former teammate "lived life with a smile on his face".

"We called him Super Stu because he was a super rugby player," he told Radio New Zealand on Monday. "He just seemed to slide through gaps effortlessly and he was so good at it that they moved him into centre at one stage."

REMEMBERED: Larry Moloney and Seamus Dennilson track the run of All Black Stu Wilson during Munster's historic 12-0 victory over the All Blacks at Thomond Park in 1978

Wilson also made 89 appearances for Wellington between 1975 and 1984, scoring 216 points.

"Beyond his playing career, Wilson remained an influential voice in the game, contributing as a commentator and advocate for rugby, always bringing insight and passion to his analysis," the Wellington Rugby Football Union said in a statement.

"Stu Wilson's contribution to rugby in Wellington and New Zealand is immeasurable. He was more than just a world-class player; he was a proud ambassador for the sport, his province, and his country."