News of the death of All Blacks legend Sir Collin Meads has been met with sadness on social media.
The 81-year-old passed away on Sunday morning after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
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Fans on social media have reacted to the devastating news, including current All Blacks.
New Zealand Rugby released a statement on the passing of the rugby icon on Sunday afternoon.
"Our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Te Kuiti Medical Centre, particularly doctors David McLean and Keith Buswell, and to the nursing staff at Te Kuiti Hospital for their superb care of Colin.
"To our friends, thank you for your love and care. The visits and phone calls were enjoyed by Colin and appreciated by us all.
"To those throughout the country who sent Colin best wishes, we thank you for your kindness.
"The Meads family has requested privacy at this time and they have asked media to respect this."
His youngest daughter, Shelley Mitchell, said: "Dad led a full life. He loved being an All Black and he loved his family dearly. We will miss him terribly."
Former All Black Bryan "BG" Williams, who played with Meads towards the end of his career, told Ryan Bridge on RadioLIVE's Your Sunday he saw Meads as his "hero".
"Condolences to lady Verna and the Meads family," Williams said.
"It is a great loss for New Zealand. He is an absolute legend, an icon and my hero.
"He was always willing to give his time to make his community and New Zealand a better place."
Newshub.
