Former Wales centre Matthew J Watkins has died at the age of 41 after a long illness.
Watkins retired in 2011 and revealed in 2013 he had been diagnosed with a rare form of pelvic cancer.
He leaves his wife Stacey and sons Siôr and Tal.
Some sad news to bring you this morning.
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) March 7, 2020
Former Wales centre Matthew J Watkins has died at the age of 41.
In full ➡ https://t.co/nGQTDMJVsq pic.twitter.com/ml3Qws1Zh8
In 2013, Matthew was diagnosed with a rare form of pelvic cancer. In recent years he has helped raise thousands of pounds with fundraising events for Welsh Cancer Centre Velindre, where he was receiving treatment.
The thoughts of everyone at RUCK.co.uk are with Matthew’s wife Stacey, his sons Siôr and Tal, family and friends at this sad time.
TRIBUTES
Rest peacefully MJ 😞
— Jamie Roberts (@Jamiehuwroberts) March 7, 2020
Do him proud at Twickenham today lads @WelshRugbyUnion 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🏴
Gutted to hear the passing of Mj this morning thoughts are with his family class player and one of rugby’s great characters #gonetosoon #ripmate
— Dan Lydiate (@dan_lydiate) March 7, 2020
Very sad to hear this. My sincerest and deepest sympathy to his family and friends. Had the pleasure of his company on and off the field on a few occasions. A wonderful person. God bless https://t.co/YLEgd8h83w
— Nigel Owens MBE (@Nigelrefowens) March 7, 2020
Heart breaking news this morning about a legend of a bloke that has lost his long fight with a horrible disease. As long as I live will the absolute character that was MJ be in my memories. Nos dda mate 😢
— Ian Gough (@VanGough4) March 7, 2020