Legendary rugby league winger Boston dies aged 92

Sir Billy Boston, a rugby league legend, has passed away at the age of 92. Born in Cardiff in 1934, Boston initially played rugby union before transitioning to rugby league and joining Wigan in 1953. Despite playing only a few games in league, his exceptional talent was quickly recognized and he was selected for the 1954 Great Britain tour to Australia and New Zealand, becoming the first black British player to tour Down Under.

Boston scored 478 tries in 488 games for Wigan, helping the team win three Challenge Cups and the Championship. He also scored 24 tries in 31 appearances for Great Britain and played a crucial role in the 1960 World Cup-winning team, scoring a try in the final against Australia. Boston holds the record for the most tries in rugby league history, with only Australian legend Brian Bevan having scored more.

Throughout his life, Boston faced racial prejudice, which prevented him from representing Cardiff and Wales in rugby union. He expressed his regret in interviews, stating that he would have given up his rugby league achievements to play for his home town and nation. Despite his accomplishments, Boston remained humble and down-to-earth, even running the Griffin Hotel in Wigan, where one of the stands was named after him.

Boston was inducted into the Rugby League Hall of Fame in 1988 and is one of five rugby league players honored with a statue at Wembley Stadium. He was also appointed an MBE in 1986 and received a knighthood in 2025, just weeks after the passing of his wife, Lady Joan. Tributes from various figures, including the Prime Minister and Wigan owner, praised Boston's incredible career, humility, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.