New Zealand
Jerry Collins' daughter in 'worrying state'
June 10, 2015
Hundreds of people from Collins' French club Narbonne marched in memory of the fallen All Blacks great © Getty Images
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The three-month-old daughter of former All Blacks back-rower Jerry Collins remains in a "worrying" state in a French hospital, five days after the crash which killed her parents. Collins, 34, and his Canadian wife Alana Madill died in a car accident near Beziers in the south of France on Friday, and their daughter Ayla was critically injured.

"The state of the health of Ayla still remains worrying," French official Yvon Clavet said on Tuesday in a statement, AFP reports.

Loose forward Collins played 48 Tests for the All Blacks, including three as captain between 2001 and 2007. He was famed for his strength and hard tackling as well as his generous personality. Since his death tributes have flowed freely.

Over the next three nights his Wellington club side Norths is holding tribute evenings for Collins. And in a message posted on Norths' Facebook page, English rugby club Barnstaple says it wants to adopt Norths' blue and white socks as a show of respect to Collins. In 2007 Collins, not long after playing in the Rugby World Cup, volunteered to play for Barnstaple's second team.

His short stint with the club had touched many, the club's James Hudson said. "His grass roots approach and willingness to help run some coaching at junior level will be talked about for years to come."

Collins later wore Barnstaple's socks when he appeared for the Barbarians side which beat South Africa at Twickenham. Hudson said they wanted to repay the favour by wearing Norths' socks and surrendering the No.6 jersey for their first match next season.

© AAP

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