Skip to main content
Welsh legend Phil Bennett dies at 73
Phil Bennett in action for the Barbarians against the All Blacks at Cardiff Arms Park, in January 1979

TRIBUTES have poured in to Welsh rugby legend Phil Bennett, who has died after a long illness at the age of 73.

Bennett played 413 times for Llanelli RFC, from making his debut as an 18-year-old to his final appearance in 1981, captaining the side for six years of his 15-year spell.

One of Wales’s greatest ever players, he won 29 caps for his country between 1969 and 1978, winning two Five Nations grand slams and three triple crowns.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Wales's Ellis Mee and South Africa's Damian Willemse in action during the Quilter Nations Series match at Principality Stadium, Cardiff, November 29, 2025
Men’s rugby union / 30 November 2025
30 November 2025

Tandy's men failed to score a point at home for the first time in 58 years

Wales' Sisilia Tuipulotu (left) is tackled by Ireland's Linda Djougang (left) and Brittany Hogan (right) during the Women's Six Nations match at Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff, March 25, 2023
Women's Rugby Union / 19 August 2025
19 August 2025
16/7/24 of Hefin David MS stands outside the Senedd, the Welsh parliament building in Cardiff
Wales / 13 August 2025
13 August 2025
England Women head coach Charlotte Edwards (right) during a nets session at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. Picture date: Friday June 27, 2025
WOMEN'S CRICKET / 7 July 2025
7 July 2025