Australia
Max Howell dies after long cancer battle
February 3, 2014
Max Howell (2nd from left) with George Gregan (l), Tony Shaw, Dick Tooth (r) after being named as ARU Classic Wallabies Statesmen in 2012 © Getty Images
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Former Wallabies centre, academic and writer Max Howell has died after a long battle with cancer.

Named an Australian Rugby Statesman in 2012, Howell played five Tests and 27 non-cap games for Australia just after World War II, and also coached Canada in the late 1950s.

A noted sports historian, he wrote more than 50 books and was awarded an Order of Australia in 2003 for Service to Education as a pioneer in the development of sports studies and sport science.

Australian Rugby Union chief executive Bill Pulver said the ARU was in mourning for the 86-year-old.

"While Max's contribution on the rugby field was impressive, we are immensely proud of his contribution to broader society through his teaching, studies and family achievements," Pulver said.

© AAP

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