One of Scotland's greatest and most loved rugby union players, Scott Hastings, has died at the age of 61.
Hastings, alongside his brother Gavin, was part of the last Scotland side to win a Grand Slam when they triumphed in the 1990 Five Nations.
In 2022, Hastings revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer and was receiving treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which could not be cured.
A statement on Sunday from Hastings’ son Corey and daughter Kerry-Anne confirmed his death.
The statement said they were saddened to inform the public that Scott passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on the morning of Sunday, 17th May.
It said the day also marked his late wife Jenny’s birthday, which they believed was a sign that he was now reunited with his beloved Jenny.
The statement added that Scott was undergoing cancer treatment and, due to complications, his condition deteriorated extremely quickly.
It also said that despite every effort by the incredible team at the Western General ICU, he passed away peacefully and pain-free.
While playing club rugby for Watsonians in his hometown of Edinburgh, Hastings earned 65 caps for Scotland and toured twice with the British and Irish Lions in 1989 and 1993.
After ending his rugby career in 1999, Hastings became a well-known rugby broadcaster as both a commentator and pundit.
He was also known for his charity work supporting mental health, motor neurone disease, and many other causes.
Inducted into the Scottish Rugby Hall of Fame last year, Hastings is considered one of Scotland's greatest rugby union players.
Meanwhile, World Rugby said it was deeply saddened by the passing of Scotland great Scott Hastings.
It said Hastings was one of the defining players of his generation, representing Scotland in 65 test matches and playing a pivotal role in the nation’s historic 1990 Grand Slam triumph.
World Rugby said Hastings was a British and Irish Lion and an iconic figure in the game. He was respected throughout world rugby for his leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment on the field.
Following his playing career, Hastings remained a valued voice within the sport, continuing to contribute to rugby through broadcasting and advocacy with the same authenticity and love for the game that defined his career.
World Rugby said its thoughts were with his family, friends, former teammates, and the entire Scottish rugby community during this incredibly difficult time.
Source: BBC and World Rugby
