NZR mourns the passing of Alex 'Grizz' Wyllie

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of All Blacks legend Alex ‘Grizz’ Wyllie (All Black #688), one of New Zealand rugby’s most revered figures. Wyllie passed away on 22 March at the age of 80. 

A formidable loose forward and esteemed coach, Wyllie made an indelible impact on the game, representing the All Blacks between 1970 and 1973 before later coaching the national side from 1988 to 1991. His leadership, toughness, and passion for the game helped shape the All Blacks and inspired generations of players and fans. 

NZR Chief Executive Mark Robinson paid tribute to Wyllie, acknowledging his immense contribution to rugby in New Zealand. 

“Grizz Wyllie was a true giant of our game – not just in the way he played, but in the way he led and inspired those around him.  Grizz was a larger-than-life character who made an immense impact as a player and coach, and his legacy will live on in New Zealand and World rugby forever. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the wider rugby community at this difficult time.” 

NZR Chair David Kirk, who captained the 1987 Rugby World Cup side alongside Wyllie as Assistant Coach, also expressed his condolences. 

“Grizz Wyllie embodied everything that makes New Zealand rugby special – toughness, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. I remember him as a fierce competitor, an uncompromising player and a tough coach. His passing is a huge loss to our rugby family.” 

Canterbury Rugby Union Chair Mike Lay said Wyllie will forever be a legend of the red and black jersey, having played 210 games for the Canterbury province between 1964 and 1979, including over 100 as Captain, and going on to coach the side from 1982 to 1986. 

“Canterbury Rugby will feel this loss deeply, including Canterbury Country Rugby and the Glenmark Rugby Club where Grizz began his career.  As both a player and coach, Grizz set standards that defined Canterbury Rugby and left a lasting legacy on New Zealand's rugby culture. We mourn his passing but celebrate the incredible contribution he made to our sport and the way he inspired a province.” 

Wyllie played 40 games for the All Blacks, including 11 Tests, and captained the side three times. He was a national selector in 1986 and went on to help the All Blacks to their first Rugby World Cup win in 1987 as an Assistant Coach. Wyllie achieved a 91% success rate as Head Coach of the All Blacks, with 58 test wins, five losses and a draw.  He subsequently took on various international coaching roles in England, Ireland, South Africa and Argentina, taking the Pumas to their first Rugby World Cup quarterfinal in 1999 as Head Coach.  

Wyllie was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 1986 New Year Honours for his services to rugby. 

New Zealand Rugby extends its deepest sympathies to the Wyllie family, friends, former teammates, and all those who knew and admired him.