Former All Blacks winger Grant Batty has died at the age of 74, passing away on Friday in Queensland, Australia.
"Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Grant Batty, All Black #715, who has sadly passed at age 74," New Zealand Rugby said today in a statement, as reported by 1News.
Batty represented the All Blacks in 56 matches between 1972 and 1977, including 15 Test appearances, and was one of the most recognisable players of his era despite his smaller stature.
According to a report by 1News, originally from Greytown, Batty moved to Wellington before making his professional rugby debut in 1970. Standing 165cm tall and weighing about 65kg, he was often among the smallest players on the field but earned a reputation for his speed, courage and fearless style of play, becoming widely known as a “pocket rocket”.
One of the defining moments of Batty’s career came in 1977, when he scored a memorable intercept try against the British Lions at Athletic Park, his final try in the black jersey.
Batty scored 45 tries at the international level before a serious knee injury brought his playing career to an early end at just 25. He later moved to Australia, where he remained involved in rugby as a coach and manager, as reported by 1News.
New Zealand Rugby acting chief executive Steve Lancaster paid tribute to Batty, describing him as a "highly skilled player of his era".
"He could energise a crowd, many of whom loved his bravery in not shirking away from larger opponents, and often coming away on top," Lancaster said, 1News has quoted.
"He loved the game and representing his country, and his contribution will forever be part of the All Blacks’ legacy," 1News has quoted.
Wellington Rugby chief executive Tony Giles also acknowledged Batty’s impact on the game at a regional level.
"He made so many Wellingtonians proud, and we know that the Marist St Pats community will particularly feel his loss," Giles said, as quoted by 1News.
New Zealand Rugby extended its condolences and support to Batty’s family, friends and former teammates following his death.