Kevin Bowring dead: Wales rugby great passes away aged 70 as tributes pour in for ‘legend’ of the game

Former Wales coach Kevin Bowring has died at the age of 70. 

Bowring led the team in 29 matches, securing a record of 15 wins and 14 defeats, between 1995 and 1998. He was Wales’ first full-time professional coach when he took the role. 

His tenure as Wales coach ended after a heavy 51-0 defeat by France in the 1998 Five Nations at Wembley. Bowring resigned following the loss. 

London Welsh, where he spent nine years and appeared in 268 games, led the tributes to their former captain, who they described as a ‘legend’ of the club. 

‘London Welsh is extremely sad to hear of the passing of another legend of London Welsh, Kevin Bowring.’ A statement from the side read.

Former Wales coach Kevin Bowring has died at the age of 70

Bowring was Wales’ first full-time professional coach and led the side in 29 matches between 1995 to 1998

‘Whilst Kevin did not play for Wales like so many other greats at London Welsh, Kevin would hold the historic honour of being the first professional coach of the Welsh National side from 1995 to 1998. Always one of us, never forgotten.’

After retiring from the game at the age of 32, Bowring became involved with the Welsh Rugby Union set-up where he coached the Sevens, under-21s and Wales B sides. 

WRU community director Geraint John said: ‘So sad to hear the news that Kevin Bowring has passed away. A true rugby person, a friend, mentor to myself & many people around the world. Sending love & condolences from myself & all at the Welsh Rugby Union to Wendy and family. One of the best. ‘

Bowring began his Wales spell as caretaker boss, leading the side to a win over Fiji in November 1995. He then took permanent charge and led Wales in another 28 matches. 

Bowring was appointed as head of elite coach development for Rugby Football Union In 2001 – English rugby’s governing body. 

He stayed at the RFU until his retirement in 2016 but continued to mentor young coaches as a coach development consultant, including spending some time with the Welsh regional coaches.