Scott Hastings, a Scottish rugby great, has died at the age of 61.
Hastings, who played alongside his brother Gavin, was a member of the Scotland team that won the 1990 Five Nations Grand Slam.
In 2022, Hastings disclosed his cancer diagnosis and underwent treatment for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which was incurable.
Family Statement Confirms Hastings’ Passing
Hastings’ death was confirmed in a statement released on Sunday by his son, Corey, and daughter, Kerry-Anne.
“We are saddened to inform you that Scott passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the morning of Sunday 17 May,” the statement read.
The statement also noted, “This also marked his late wife Jenny’s birthday which speaks louder than words that he is safe and with his beloved Jenny.”
According to the family, “Scott was undergoing cancer treatment and due to complications deteriorated extremely quickly. Despite every effort by the incredible team at the Western General ICU, he passed away peacefully and pain free.”
The family has requested privacy to “process and manage their energies” and have asked for their privacy to be respected. They indicated that “more information will be shared in due course to celebrate Scott’s incredible life.”
A Career on the Pitch and in the Studio
Hastings played club rugby for Watsonians in Edinburgh. He earned 65 caps for Scotland and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions, in 1989 and 1993.
- 65 caps for Scotland
- Toured with British and Irish Lions in 1989 and 1993
- Played for Watsonians
Following his retirement from rugby in 1999, Hastings transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a commentator and pundit.
He was inducted into the Scottish Rugby Hall of Fame last year and is regarded as one of Scotland’s greatest rugby union players.
Grand Slam Glory and Lions Tours
Hastings made his Scotland debut in 1986, during the amateur era, while playing for Watsonians and Edinburgh district sides. He and his older brother Gavin both made their first international appearances against France that year.
Hastings started in the 1990 Grand Slam decider and made a tackle on England winger Rory Underwood as Scotland won 13-7 at Murrayfield.
During the 1989 Lions tour of Australia, Hastings started two of the three Test matches. However, a shattered cheekbone cut short his 1993 tour of New Zealand, preventing him from starting in the Test matches.
When rugby union turned professional in 1995, Hastings captained Edinburgh. After retiring, he became a familiar face on television, known for his commentary and punditry.
Charity Work and Advocacy
Hastings was a strong advocate for mental health charities, alongside his wife Jenny, who lived with depression for 20 years before her death.
He also supported efforts to raise money for motor neurone disease research after his former Scotland teammate Doddie Weir was diagnosed with the illness.
Hastings was also known for his charity work in aid of mental health, motor neurone disease, and plenty of other causes.
He is considered as one of Scotland’s greatest rugby union players.