All Blacks star Beauden Barrett has paid tribute to his "Grandad Ted" who died last week.
On Sunday, Edward Michael Barrett, the grandfather of the trio of All Blacks Barrett brothers, Beauden, Scott and Jordie, died at Taranaki Base Hospital, aged 78.
The brothers are in Japan for their Rugby World Cup campaign, but Beauden's thoughts are with his family, with the player writing an emotional Instagram tribute to his grandfather on Tuesday night.
"So many happy memories. Rest easy Grandad Ted," Beauden wrote, with a picture of him alongside his family.
A number of Beauden's teammates and famous sporting faces have commented on the post - which has been liked more than 46,000 times in seven hours.
"So sorry for your loss," wrote broadcaster Laura McGoldrick.
"Sorry man" was the message from singer Ronan Keating.
All Black Ardie Savea sent a bunch of love heart emojis, while actor Robbie Magasiva also sent love hearts with a "RIL" (rest in love) message.
Many of the player's fans also sent their thoughts
"Beautiful photo, sorry to hear of your loss," said one person.
The beloved grandfather reportedly died surrounded by his wife, Mary, and other family members.
"Dearly loved and cherished husband of Mary for 57 years," says a funeral notice in the NZ Herald.
"Loving father and adored 'Granddad Ted' of all his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren."
The All Blacks wrapped up their World Cup pool campaign over the weekend, when their final clash with Italy was called off, due to Typhoon Hagibis.
They now face Ireland in the quarter-finals on Saturday. Grandad Ted's parents were both Irish.
The funeral notice has asked that, instead of flowers, donations should be made to the Upside Down Education Trust, helping people with Down Syndrome.
Zara Barrett - younger sister to Beauden, Scott and Jordie - has Down Syndrome.
Newshub.
