Scarlets issue 'truly overwhelming' Phil Bennett family statement

The family of the late Phil Bennett, the former Lions and Wales out-half who sadly passed away in June at the age of 73, have released a statement via the Scarlets seven-and-a-half weeks after his death. Tributes poured in at the time in memory of the 37-cap half-back who was described as an icon of the sport, a rugby superstar.

A former Scarlets captain, Bennett was club president at the time of his death and the United Rugby Championship region have now released the following statement on behalf of the Bennett family. It read: “The last few months have been an extremely difficult and sad time for us as a family. Philip leaves behind a void in our lives that will never be filled and we will miss him deeply every day.

“We have, however, taken comfort in the incredible kindness that has been shown to us, which has been truly overwhelming.

“There have been so many thoughtful and caring gestures that it is impossible to thank everyone individually, but please be assured that every act of kindness has meant a great deal to us as a family and will never be forgotten. With heartfelt thanks, Pat and family.”

Affectionately known as Benny, Bennett played 413 times for Llanelli RFC from making his debut as an 18-year-old to his final appearance in 1981, captaining the side for six years of his 15-year spell.

Regarded as one of Wales’ greatest ever players, he won 29 caps for his country between 1969 and 1978, winning two Five Nations Grand Slams and three Triple Crowns, while also being capped on eight occasions by the British and Irish Lions.

The Scarlets statement in June announcing the death of Bennett read: “A player with stardust in his boots, he possessed a sidestep that would mesmerise defenders – his jinking run to spark ‘the greatest try ever scored’ for the Barbarians against New Zealand in Cardiff in 1973 will live long in rugby folklore.”