Everyone at St. Helens R.F.C. is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sir Billy Boston, aged 92.
A legend of rugby league, the Cardiff-born player was a trailblazer for black sports stars in the 1950s and 60s. He played 488 times for Wigan and scored an astonishing 478 tries, and helped the club win three Challenge Cup trophies.
In 1954, Sir Billy became history’s first non-white player to be selected for a Great Britain Rugby League Lions tour. He scored 36 tries in 18 appearances across Australia and New Zealand including a then-record four in a single match against the Kiwis. He returned for a second Lions tour in 1962 and contributed a try to Great Britain’s victory over Australia in the 1960 World Cup Final. Throughout his career he amassed 24 tries in 31 Test matches for Great Britain and an additional 53 tries from 27 further tour appearances.
In June 2025, Billy Boston was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire and became Sir William John Boston KBE. He became the first person to be recognised from our sport’s over 130-year history with a knighthood, receiving the honour at Buckingham Palace as part of King Charles III’s birthday honours list.
Chairman Eamonn McManus said: “Sir Billy Boston was more than an all time great of the sport of rugby league. His name both symbolised and transcended it.
“He was one of the greats for both Wigan and Great Britain in the golden era of our sport in the 1950s and 60s. He was a giant amongst giants.
“He led and epitomised our sport’s and our communities’ pioneering example in breaking down racial barriers in this country and he should be remembered always for that.
“Although deeply saddened by his passing we should in equal measure celebrate his unparalleled contribution to our sport and to our society.”
