Former Scotland and British & Irish Lions forward Sandy Carmichael, who once famously finished a game despite fracturing his cheekbone in five places, has died at the age of 77.

Confirming the news of his death, a Scottish Rugby tweet read: “Scottish Rugby is saddened to hear former Internationalist & @lionsofficial Sandy Carmichael MBE has died earlier today.

“He was a giant of the game in Scotland in many ways and our thoughts and condolences go to his friends and family at this time.”

Carmichael earned 50 caps for Scotland between 1967 and 1978 and was part of Lions squads in 1971 and 1974.

During a fiery encounter with Canterbury during the 1971 Lions tour, Carmichael suffered multiple fractures to his cheekbone but still managed to finish the game.

The British & Irish Lions tweeted: “We are saddened to learn of the death of Lion #497 Sandy Carmichael MBE.

“Carmichael was part of the revered 1971 & 1974 squads and was recognised as one of the bravest as well as fairest players to grace the game.”

© Agence France-Presse

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