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Rugby legend Ray Gravell joins Welsh Sports Hall of Fame

BBC Sport •
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Ray Gravell will be posthumously inducted into the Welsh Sports Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of Wales’ most celebrated rugby figures. The hard‑running centre earned 23 caps for Wales and helped Llanelli defeat the All Blacks in 1972, a result still spoken of in club lore. His induction arrives as the nation reflects on a career that defined an era and inspires future generations.

Gravell debuted for Wales in Paris, a 25‑10 victory over France in 1975, and became a linchpin of the 1970s‑early‑80s sides that claimed two Grand Slams, four Five Nations titles and four Triple Crowns. Injured before the 1977 Lions tour, he returned for the 1980 South Africa expedition, starting three Tests and crossing for a try in Bloemfontein.

After retiring, Gravell added 485 appearances for Llanelli before moving into BBC and S4C broadcasting, where his humor and trademark “west is best” catch‑phrase made him a household name. A 2007 leg amputation and a heart attack later that year ended his life; his funeral at Stradey Park drew thousands, underscoring his lasting impact on Welsh sport.