‘A Great Loss’: Former All Blacks Captain Stu Wilson Passes Away at 70

This article was first published on Stuff and is shared here with permission

Stu Wilson, the former captain of the All Blacks, has passed away at the age of 70.

After his distinguished career as a player, Wilson transitioned into commentary and media, earning recognition for his insights and charisma. He represented the All Blacks 85 times (34 tests) from 1976 to 1983 before sadly dying in Tauranga over the weekend.

Hailing from Gore, Wilson was an exceptionally skilled wing, amassing 50 tries in the iconic black jersey. He led the national team during their 1983 tour of Scotland and England.

Known for his quick wit and vibrant personality, Wilson made his debut against a Buenos Aires selection at just 22 years old, with his test debut following against France in Toulouse in 1977.

Considered one of the finest wingers in All Blacks history, Wilson made the surprising decision to retire from international rugby in 1984 while still performing at an elite level. His tally of 19 test tries stood as a record until Sir John Kirwan surpassed it in 1988.

Fellow All Blacks legend Murray Mexted expressed his shock at the news, revealing he had shared a coffee with Wilson just hours before his passing. “He was in his usual upbeat mood, so it’s truly a shock,” Mexted shared with RNZ.

Mexted and Wilson shared a long history, having played together in Wellington and the All Blacks since their teenage years. “Stu was always full of spirit in a delightful way; there was never a dull moment with him, and he embraced life with a smile,” he reflected.

He went on to highlight Wilson’s unique playing style. “He was slippery and graceful, exuding calmness on the field. We affectionately called him Super Stu, as he truly was a super player,” Mexted added. “He seemed to glide through challenges so effortlessly that he was moved to centre for a time.”

Wallabies legend David Campese, who made his test debut against Wilson in 1982, also paid tribute to him on Monday. “In my early days, Stu was the standard for wing play worldwide. He was the player we all aspired to be – confident, clever, incredibly fast, and intellectually astute,” Campese remarked to Planet Rugby.

“Stu made rugby appear effortless, and his leadership in 1983 commanded immense respect. He possessed a signature swerve, unmatched speed, intelligence, and strength that made him a formidable try-scoring force. I faced him in my debut during the Bledisloe Cup in Christchurch, where I scored my first test try against him. We formed a strong friendship, playing together in various invitation matches. I still treasure his jersey from that inaugural test; it represents the benchmark I aimed for.”

Over his career, Wilson also accumulated 89 appearances for Wellington from 1975 to 1984, scoring 54 tries for the Lions.

In addition to his commentary role, Wilson also ventured into real estate and engaged with charitable organisations. “A doctor named Kok Chow saved my life by placing a stent in my heart artery,” Wilson shared previously. “I often see him around the hospital, so I usually tell him, ‘I appreciate your handiwork, mate. It’s been great, and I’m still going strong.”

Wilson was motivated to keep active post-retirement and responded to a job advertisement at a time when he was looking to get out of the house a few days a week. During his interview, regional team leader Bruce Raynel asked how he felt about following orders. Wilson replied, “All I want to be is a foot-soldier, Bruce. Just do the job and come back to tick it off.”

NZ Rugby chairman David Kirk, who played alongside Wilson during the 1983 tour, expressed how deeply missed Wilson will be. “Stu was one of the greatest wings in the history of the game, as well as one of rugby’s most unforgettable personalities,” he stated.

“He had a light-hearted outlook on life yet was intensely passionate about representing his country. At his peak, he could hardly be stopped with the ball and was respected by teammates and rivals alike around the globe. His absence will be profoundly felt, and he will be fondly remembered.”

Mark Robinson, the chief executive of NZ Rugby, noted that Wilson was “ahead of his time.” “Stu played to the conditions in a way that consistently outsmarted defenders with his agility, speed, and strategic kicking,” Robinson remarked.

“His flair and enthusiasm for the game inspired a generation. After his playing days, he remained a positive and respected figure in public discussions surrounding rugby, maintaining strong connections with both his club and provincial roots. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.”