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Sir Billy Boston, first rugby league player to receive knighthood, dies aged 92

He scored 478 tries in 488 games for Wigan and helped Great Britain win the 1960 World Cup, officials said.

  • Sir Billy Boston, the iconic rugby league winger, has died at age 92. The Welsh Rugby Union confirmed the death of the legendary athlete, who spent his later years in Wigan.
  • Born in Tiger Bay, Boston rose to prominence after signing for Wigan in 1953 at age 19. He became the club's most celebrated figure, representing his heritage throughout a storied professional career.
  • A prolific scorer, Boston recorded 478 tries across 488 appearances for Wigan during the 1950s and 1960s. His dominance on the field solidified his reputation as one of rugby league's greatest players.
  • His passing occurred only four days after the funeral of his wife, Lady Joan, to whom he had been married for 70 years. The timing underscored the depth of their lifelong partnership.
  • Boston remains a foundational figure in Welsh sport, remembered as a pioneer. Last year, he became the first rugby league player awarded a knighthood, cementing his historic status in the sport.
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Wales Online broke the news in Cardiff, United Kingdom on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
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