Former England rugby captain and Lions star dies aged 87 as tributes pour in

Former England rugby captain Richard Sharp OBE has died at the age of 87. The ex-fly-half passed away on Monday.

Sharp was born in India in 1938 but grew up in England and went to school in Devon. He then attended Balliol College, Oxford, before beginning his club rugby career with Redruth in Cornwall. And he even made a name for himself in cricket as he played for Cornwall in the Minor Counties Championship between 1957 and 1970.

Following his spell with Redruth, Sharp featured for Wasps and Bristol, and was also called up to represent the Barbarians and the Royal Navy.

He made his England debut in 1960 and went on to win 14 caps for his nation over a seven-year period.

The former No.10 soon earned the England captaincy and led his country to Five Nations success in 1963. During that title-winning campaign, England secured their first victory in Cardiff against Wales for almost 30 years.

The talented player even crossed the whitewash with a superb solo effort in that clash as he raced nearly 40 metres before grounding the ball.

A year before that Five Nations glory, Sharp starred for the British & Irish Lions during their Tour of South Africa as he scored 45 points in 11 outings.

He appeared in two Test matches during that Tour, with South Africa winning the series 3-0.

Sharp spent his time promoting sport across the south west following his retirement and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 1986 New Year Honours.

His death was announced by Redruth, who wrote in a statement: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Sharp on Monday, 3rd November 2025.

"Richard played for Redruth, Wasps, Bristol, Royal Navy, Oxford University, Cornwall, Barbarians, England and British Lions. He also captained England. Our thoughts are with Richard's family."

England Rugby posted on social media: "Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of former England captain, Richard Sharp OBE."

And the British & Irish Lions sent their "sincere condolences to all of Sharp's family and friends."

Meanwhile, Cornwall RFU chairman Steve Murley said: "Richard will be remembered not simply for the tries scored, the caps won, or the Tours undertaken, but for the person he was - quietly assured, respectfully modest, unwavering in his support for Cornwall and his sporting communities.

"His passing will be mourned by his family, his many friends in Cornish and English sport, and all who valued not only his athletic talents but his character.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and to the communities - rugby, cricket, Cornwall - that he enriched so deeply."