Ex-Lions and Wales prop O’Shea dies at 83

Former British and Irish Lions and Wales prop John O’Shea has died aged 83 after a lengthy illness.

O’Shea made five appearances for Wales across 1967 and 1968, being selected for the Lions tour to South Africa in the latter year.

He became the first Lions player to receive a red card on that tour after punching an Eastern Transvaal player in a 37-9 victory for the tourists, before featuring in the first test of the four-match series with the Springboks.

In 1969 he was made club captain at Cardiff, ending his career in the Welsh capital at the end of that season with 213 appearances and 19 tries to his name.

“A great character, John was a very popular and respected member of the club where he made many life-long friends,” the club said on their website.

“He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.”

For exclusive stories and all the detailed rugby news you need, subscribe to The Rugby Paper website, digital edition, or newspaper from as little as 14p a day.