Former England and Bath coach Rowell dies

Former England and Bath caput coach Jack Rowell has died astatine nan property of 87.

Rowell took complaint of England from 1994 to 1997, winning 21 of his 29 Tests.

They won nan Five Nations Grand Slam successful 1995 and 1996 and reached nan World Cup semi-final successful 1995.

"We are saddened to perceive nan passing of Jack Rowell and widen our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends," said England caput coach Steve Borthwick.

"As a subordinate astatine Bath, I had nan privilege of moving pinch him erstwhile he was head of rugby.

"He near a immense belief connected me, not only arsenic personification pinch unthinkable rugby knowledge, but besides a awesome man.

"His publication to English rugby was enormous, and he will beryllium sorely missed."

Rowell took complaint of England aft winning 5 Premiership titles successful 16 years arsenic Bath coach.

He returned to nan Recreation Ground arsenic head of rugby successful 2002.

A Bath connection read: "It is pinch heavy sadness that we learned of nan passing of erstwhile Bath Rugby caput coach and nine president Jack Rowell connected Monday 1 July.

"Jack Rowell, each 6ft 7in of him, was a towering fig successful nan history of Bath and English rugby, a unsocial characteristic who will ne'er beryllium equalled for his bonzer achievements arsenic a visionary, astute strategist and inspirational coach.

"From his presence successful nan summertime of 1978 to his departure astatine nan extremity of yet different trophy-laden play successful 1994 to coach England, Jack had group astir creating and sustaining an unstoppable unit successful home rugby.

"On behalf of everyone astatine Bath Rugby, we widen our deepest condolences to Jack's family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest successful peace, Jack."

Bath caput of rugby Johann van Graan said: "He is simply a existent fable of Bath Rugby whose achievements present will ne'er beryllium forgotten by everyone associated pinch nan club.

"Fans of nan blue, achromatic and achromatic will consciousness his nonaccomplishment astir of each arsenic an exceptional leader and visionary coach, but he besides proudly dedicated his services to nan England squad and will, therefore, beryllium fondly remembered by galore crossed nan game.

"My condolences spell to his family and friends astatine this very sad time."