Irish rugby legend Tom Kiernan dies at 83

Irish rugby legend Tom Kiernan, who also coached Ireland to the Five Nations title and Triple Crown, has died aged 83, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) announced on Thursday.

"It's doubtful anyone has left a bigger imprint on the sport in this country," the IRFU said in a statement on their website.

Kiernan was capped 54 times between 1960 and 1973. He captained his country 24 times.

Among the many high points were a 10-10 draw with New Zealand in 1973 and Ireland's first wins over South Africa in 1965 and the Australians in Australia in 1967.

The classy full-back rounded off his stellar Test career for Ireland scoring a try against Scotland on his final appearance.

When he retired he was Ireland's then most-capped player, most experienced captain, and record scorer in Tests with 158 points.

In that time he missed only three Ireland matches, when he suffered a broken a foot against France at Lansdowne Road in the opening game of the 1970 Five Nations.

That injury ended a run of 52 consecutive appearances.

He was also selected for two British & Irish Lions tours, captaining them in South Africa in 1968 when he was an ever-present and scored 35 points in the four-match Test series.

He also captained his club, Cork Constitution, and his province, Munster. He was part of the Munster teams that beat Australia in 1967 and drew with New Zealand in 1973.

"The Cork Constitution and UCC stalwart has left an indelible mark on the game at every level as player, coach and administrator," wrote the IRFU.

They further eulogised about him on their Twitter account.

"'A career without equal' -- A legend of Irish and World Rugby has passed."

"Tom Kiernan of @UCCRFC @CorkConRugby @Munsterrugby @IrishRugby & @lionsofficial -- Rest In Peace Our