Tributes flow as 'rugby titan' Syd Millar dies aged 89

The IRFU have paid tribute to a "titan of rugby union" after the death was announced of Irish rugby great, Syd Millar, at the age of 89.

A legendary figure within the sport, Millar was capped 37 times for Ireland between 1958 and 1970, playing on three Lions tours, later serving as a coach and high-profile administrator.

News of his death was announced this evening by his club, Ballymena RFC.

IRFU chief executive Kevin Potts described Millar as a "visionary figure" who "helped re-shape the global game."

"Syd Millar was a titan of Rugby Union, both in Ireland and globally. A talented player who represented Ballymena, Ulster, Ireland, the Barbarians and the British & Irish Lions with distinction, he was a respected coach and manager and in latter years was a leading administrative figure who helped reshape the global game.

"Syd was a visionary who helped navigate the testing waters as the game moved from amateurism to professionalism.

"A past president of Ballymena Rugby Club, Ulster Rugby and the IRFU, Syd's influence helped drive the global expansion of the sport. His is a legacy which will endure.

"On behalf of the Irish rugby community I would like to express my sincere condolences to his daughter Lesley, sons Peter and Johnny at this sad time."

Having been elected to the IRFU Council in 1992, subsequently being made President in 1995, Millar was appointed IRB vice-chairman in 2002.

The high-point of his administrative career was reached when he assumed the role of IRB chairman - the forerunner of World Rugby - in 2003, serving a four-year term and presiding over the 2007 World Cup.

He stepped down as both IRB chairman and IRFU President in 2007.

Millar, a prop forward, made his Irish debut against France in Colombes in 1958,