ENGLAND rugby legend Richard Sharp has tragically died at the age of 87.
The British & Irish Lions star – who made his international debut in 1960 – sadly passed away on Monday.
Tributes have flooded in for the rugby union icon, whose England career spanned seven years and saw him earn 14 caps.
Richard’s former club, Redruth Rugby, announced the legendary fly-half’s passing in a touching statement on social media.
The club said: “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 & British Lions.
“He also captained England. Our thoughts are with Richard’s family.”
Cornwall RFU chair Steve Murley hailed the former England captain’s “respectfully modest” attitude.
He 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.”
Sharp was born in Bangalore, India, in September 1938 and later moved to the southwest of the UK, where he grew up.
While studying at Balliol College Oxford, Richard won three rugby Blues in the space of three years.
His club career started with Redruth, and he represented the Cornwall county side 28 times between 1957 and 1966.
He later lined-up for Wasps and Bristol, followed by appearances for the Barbarians and Royal Navy.
A statement on the Lions website read: “He impressed enough to earn the captaincy of his country as well as play in two Lions Tests in 1962.
“The Tour in question came in South Africa, with the fly-half scoring 45 points in 11 games… opening and closing his campaign with a try.
“Sharp replaced Gordon Waddell in the third Test, putting in a performance which was to earn him a place in the series finale.
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“His grand moment was to come in the 1963 Five Nations where he led England to the title.
“That success was aided by a win over Wales in Cardiff, their first for almost 30 years, with Sharp contributing an outstanding 40-metre try.”
