One of the longest living All Blacks Stan 'Tiny' Hill has died. He was 92.
Hill was primarily a lock or flanker and occasionally No. 8. and 19 games for the All Blacks including 11 tests - two as captain.
Tiny Hill tackles Lions player Dickie Jeeps during the third rugby union test match between the All Blacks and British and Irish Lions, 1959. Photo: Photosport
His first class career started with the New Zealand Army in 1949, Canterbury in 1951 and New Zealand Services in 1952.
His All Black debut came in Auckland in 1955 against the Wallabies.
Hill was an All Black selector 1981-1986 and his services to the game were recognised when he was appointed as a member of the Order of the British Empire in the New Year's Honours in 1996.
Tiny Hill with then Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder in 2015. Photo: Photosport
Hill's sons, Stan and John both played basketball for New Zealand.
"Tiny was a man who made a huge contribution to the game from the grass roots level right to the top. He was an All Black captain, an All Black Coach and also had a strong career in the military. He was an icon of our game both on the field and off and he will remembered fondly by all," said All Blacks coach Steve Hansen
"On behalf of the All Blacks we would like to express our condolences to the Hill family in what is always a sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.