Paul Rendall dead at 69: Former England rugby star nicknamed ‘The Judge’ dies after MND illness

FORMER England rugby international Paul Rendall has died aged 69.

His death follows a battle with motor neurone disease.

Nicknamed "The Judge" he was capped 28 times for his country.

He retired soon after the 1991 World Cup where England made the final, losing to Australia.

During his playing career he had a glittering spell at Wasps.

Rendall made his England debut in the 1984 Five Nations and soon after was chosen to tour South Africa with the Lions.

He gained his nickname on his inaugural tour as he was the judge at the players’ "kangaroo court".

Rendall continued in the role until he hung up his boots.

Alongside duo Brian Moore and Jeff Probyn, Rendall was part of an England front row known for a scrummaging.

Moore paid tribute to his old team-mate, saying: "Paul looked after me when I was a fledgling international, in the hard school of the front row.

"He was the best of men and a superb technician. I, and the world of rugby, will miss him greatly. RIP The Judge.”

Rendall returned to where his career began when, coaching at Slough Rugby Club following his retirement.

He also played a part at Bracknell Rugby Club and they put out an emotional statement after the news.

It read: "Paul’s contribution to Bracknell RFC and the wider rugby community is immeasurable and his humour, good nature and spirit will be greatly missed by all that knew him.”

Fans also flooded in with tributes, saying: "Terrible news great man on and off the pitch."

Another added: "Very sad news."

Ex team-mate Mike Harrison wrote: "'The Judge' was an outstanding player and England team-mate.

"He had an irrepressible urge to have fun. He was a top bloke both on and off the field, and he will be sadly missed by many.

"Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who has been touched by his zest for life. RIP."