Scotland rugby legend Scott Hastings dies aged 61

Scottish rugby legend Scott Hastings has died at the age of 61.

Hastings, alongside his brother Gavin, was part of the last Scotland side to have won a Grand Slam in 1990 when they won the Five Nations.

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He had been diagnosed with cancer in 2022, receiving treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which could not be cured.

“We are saddened to inform you that Scott passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the morning of Sunday 17 May,” a statement from Hastings’ son Corey and daughter Kerry-Anne confirmed.

“This also marked his late wife Jenny’s birthday which speaks louder than words that he is safe and with his beloved Jenny.

“Scott was undergoing cancer treatment and due to complications deteriorated extremely quickly. Despite every effort by the incredible team at the Western General ICU, he passed away peacefully and pain free.

“At this time, the family ask everyone to give them space to process and manage their energies and ask for their privacy to be respected.

“More information will be shared in due course to celebrate Scott’s incredible life.”

‘Iconic figure for Scottish rugby’

A number of big names in rugby have paid touching tributes to the former British and Irish Lion, including from current Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend as well as former Scotland and Lions boss Sir Ian McGeechan.

“Whatever jersey Scott wore, he just made it better,” said McGeechan.

“My association with Scott and his brother Gavin was always special for me because we came into the Scotland set-up, myself as coach, and Scott and Gavin as players, at the same time. We came in together and we grew together.

“I remember Scott on the Lions tours taking an absolute lead. He was so single-minded and determined about winning. He was very much your right-hand man, given what he did on the field.”

“His defensive display in the 1990 Grand Slam victory over England was crucial to that day’s success and he epitomised what it meant to play for Scotland – combining passion, confidence and aggression, whenever he wore the navy blue jersey,” former teammate of Hatings Townsend said.

“Scott always brought positivity and energy into everything he did from his playing career then into the past couple of decades as a widely travelled and respected commentator.

“His passing is a huge loss for Scottish rugby, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family and close friends. Rest in peace, Scott.”

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