Former Wales lock Brian Thomas has died at the age of 72 following a prolonged illness, his former club Neath have confirmed.

Thomas won 21 caps for his country during the 1960s and also captained Neath, who he went on to manage during the 1980s and 1990s.

A statement on the Neath RFC website read: "It is with regret that we announce that Neath legend Brian Thomas passed away in the early hours of this morning after a long illness.

"We would like to express our deepest sympathy to his family and friends."

Thomas won his first cap against England in 1963 and was part of the Wales sides that won three consecutive Five Nations tournaments in the '60s.

Written by
Pascal Lemesre