Scarlets are saddened to learn of the passing of hooker Roy ‘Shunto’ Thomas, who was part of the legendary Llanelli side that toppled the All Blacks in 1972.
Roy played 184 times for the club between 1970 and 1977, scoring eight tries.
He was awarded a Welsh Rugby Union Presidents cap for appearing against Tonga in 1974, a match that was not recognised as a full Test at that time.
Although he never won a full Wales cap, he sat on the bench for Wales on 25 occasions.
From Penclawdd, Roy was a larger than life character and a much-loved member of the side from that memorable day at Stradey Park when Llanelli claimed a famous 9-3 victory over New Zealand and the town’s pubs ran dry.
Our thoughts as a club are with Roy’s family and friends at this sad time.
