NZR mourns the passing of former All Black Grant Batty
17 January 2026
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is saddened to hear of the passing of former All Black Grant Batty, who passed away yesterday in Australia aged 74.
Batty, All Black #715, played 56 matches in the black jersey, including 15 Tests. At 5'5" (1.65m) and 70kg, he was often the smallest player on the field, but that didn’t hold him back as he scored 45 tries at international level - an impressive tally given an unfortunate knee injury which shortened his playing career at age 25.
His final act in the black jersey was a memorable intercept try against the British Lions in 1977 at Athletic Park, a ground where he’d represented club, province and country.
Hailing from Greytown, Batty moved to Wellington to attend teachers’ college, making his debut for Wellington in 1970, notching up 58 appearances over six seasons. He also represented Bay of Plenty from 1976-1977. Throughout his first-class career, Batty featured for New Zealand Universities, New Zealand Under 21 and North Island, amongst others.
Following his move to Australia, Batty remained involved in the game as a coach and manager.
NZR Acting Chief Executive Steve Lancaster said:
“Grant was a highly skilled player of his era, with explosive speed and a dangerous ability to find space. He could energise a crowd, many of whom loved his bravery in not shirking away from larger opponents, and often coming away on top. He loved the game and representing his country, and his contribution will forever be part of the All Blacks’ legacy.”
Tony Giles, Chief Executive of Wellington Rugby, said:
“This is tremendously sad news. Grant was a massive part of the fabric of Wellington Rugby for a long time, creating many memories for fans with how he punched above his weight on his way to becoming a world-class athlete. He made so many Wellingtonians proud, and we know that the Marist St Pats community will particularly feel his loss.”
New Zealand Rugby, Wellington Rugby and the entire rugby community extends its deepest sympathies to the Batty family, and all of his friends, family and former teammates.
