Among Williams' many achievements is the distinction of leading both club (Cardiff) and country to victory over the touring New Zealand side in 1953 - the nation's last success against the All Blacks.

Switching from fly-half to centre during the Second World War, he made his Wales debut against England in 1947 and went on to win 22 caps.

He skippered Wales on five occasions with a 100% success rate and was a captain of the Test team on the 1950 Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia.

Born in Taffs Well on February 22, 1923, Williams became one of eight brothers who played for Cardiff.

He joined the Royal Air Force at the start of the Second World War, flying gliders, and went onto amass 185 tries for Cardiff upon his return to rugby.

After retiring in 1955 as a 32-year-old, Williams began a career in the media. He was honoured with an MBE in the 2005 New Year Honours List at the age of 81.

WRU President Denis Gethin said: "It's very sad news to hear of the loss of one of the greats of not just Welsh and British but world rugby.

"He was such a humble man with not an ounce of conceit in his body, but he was a man of great stature."