10 January 2023 , 17:19
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Tributes have poured in for rugby icon David Duckham after the announcement of the former England international's death on Tuesday.
Duckham, 76, played 36 times for his country and crossed for 10 tries. He was also famously prolific for the British Lions when they successfully toured New Zealand in 1971, touching down 11 times in 16 tour games and contributing heavily to an historic series win over the All Blacks.
He was also a hero at Coventry, the only top level club he represented in his 12 year career between 1967 and 1979. The club has since tweeted: "Coventry Rugby is incredibly sad to learn of the news that David Duckham; ex Coventry, England and British and Irish Lions player, has died, aged 76."
Duckham was renowned for his movement and famous swerve with ball in hand, with commentator Cliff Morgan once famously being confused as he didn't know if the winger had sidestepped or dummied. He was even lauded in Wales, dubbed 'Dai' by the Welsh fans because he played with the same flair their own side was signified for.
Fans and clubs on Twitter were united in their praise of the icon, and Kenilworth RFC said: @kenilworthrugby: "Such sad news to hear that the legendary David Duckham has passed away. A frequent visitor to our club over the years and a true great of our game." @baggywowsers wrote: "So sad to read of the passing of David Duckham. Such flair and verve on the rugby pitch. RIP."
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Former work colleague @thebfgGazza tweeted: "So sorry to hear the news that David Duckham has passed away, worked with and for on many occasions, great company, and a top speaker! My thoughts are with Jean and the family at this sad time."
Duckham (left) was famed for his swerve and sidestep (S&G and Barratts/EMPICS Sport)Many also shared a YouTube video uploaded two years ago, titled 'David Duckham - England's greatest ever rugby player'. It included footage of his dazzling display in the New Zealand v Barbarians clash in 1973, remembered mostly for the early Gareth Edwards try.
Indeed, @TabbySteve wrote: "Having been at the 1973 Barbarians NZ game, my abiding memory is of David Duckham running riot all afternoon. Don't think his contribution is mentioned enough in discussion of this game."
The star was awarded an MBE for his services to rugby. He also wrote an autobiography titled 'Dai for England', jokingly referring to his nickname given by the Welsh.