Tom Smith, Scottish rugby star, dies at the age of 50

Smith played a major role in Scotland's 1999 Five Nations title and the Lions' 1997 series success in South Africa, earning 61 caps for Scotland and six for the invitational Lions during his career.

On Wednesday, Scottish Rugby wrote on Twitter: "Tom Smith, a prop for both Scotland and the Lions, passed away yesterday at the age of 50. Tom, a well-liked player, will be dearly missed by everyone involved in rugby in Scotland and around the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with Tom's family right now."

Smith's previous Lions coach, Sir Ian McGeechan, famously referred to him as "the best Scotland player of the expert period." Indeed, between 1997 and 2001, he was the last Scot to start a Lions Test match until the 2021 Lions Tour, having participated in six consecutive Tests.


Smith was a member of the Lions on their trips to South Africa and Australia in 1997 and 2001, respectively.

Smith was known for his scrummaging ability, football knowledge, and ability to keep the ball close to his body. He was one of the main 'modern day props,' who went above and beyond what was required of that role. For his performances, he was inducted into the Scottish Rugby Hall of Fame in November 2021.

Smith started his club career in 1996 with the Caledonian Reds, then went on to play for Glasgow Warriors, CA Brive, and, most famously, Northampton Saints.

Smith continued to play after he retired. He started as an advanced mentor at Edinburgh in 2009, then moved to Lyon three years later in a similar role, before joining Doncaster Knights as lead trainer in 2019.