Former rugby player and coach Brian Smith dies at 59
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 8:10 AM
Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Brian Smith, a former international rugby player for Australia and Ireland, has died at the age of 59. Smith played as a half-back, earning five caps for the Wallabies before switching allegiance to Ireland. He had a notable coaching career, including a stint as an assistant coach for England’s national team during the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Recently, he served as head of sport at Scots College in Sydney, where he was remembered fondly by the school's principal and former players. Smith had been battling aggressive cancer in recent months.
- •Brian Smith died on August 12, 2026, at age 59.
- •He earned five caps with Australia before playing for Ireland.
- •Smith coached England during the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
- •He was head of sport at Scots College in Sydney.
- •Angus Bell, a former player, offered tributes on his passing.
- 8:10 AMYahoo Sports — Former Australia and Ireland international Brian Smith dies aged 59
"Smith also spent three years as an assistant coach with England
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