TRIBUTES have been paid to former All Black Alex Wyllie, who has died at the age of 80.

Flanker Wyllie, affectionately known as Grizz, played 40 matches for New Zealand — including 11 Tests — and captained his country three times between 1970 and 1973 before becoming head coach from 1987 to 1991, winning 58 of 64 matches in charge.

He also served as an assistant coach to Sir Brian Lochore for the All Blacks’ inaugural Rugby World Cup victory in the tournament co-hosted with Australia in 1987.

Wyllie was made an MBE in the 1986 new year honours for his services to rugby.

“Grizz Wyllie was a true giant of our game — not just in the way he played, but in the way he led and inspired those around him,” said New Zealand Rugby’s chief executive Mark Robinson.

“Grizz was a larger-than-life character who made an immense impact as a player and coach and his legacy will live on in New Zealand and world rugby forever.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the wider rugby community at this difficult time.”

Wyllie played 210 matches for Canterbury between 1964 and 1979 and also coached them to New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship in 1983.