Former rugby star, BBC broadcaster Morgan dies

CARDIFF, Wales (AP) Cliff Morgan, a former Wales captain who became a BBC commentator and editor after his rugby career ended, has died. He was 83.

The Welsh Rugby Union announced Morgan's death on Thursday, but did not disclose the cause or date. The BBC said he died after a long illness.

Morgan recovered from a life-threatening stroke when he was 42, and had his larynx removed in 2005 after being diagnosed with throat cancer.

The fly half played 29 times for Wales and also captained the British and Irish Lions.

After retiring from rugby at 28, Morgan thrived in a broadcasting career as both a rugby commentator and editor of sports and current affairs programs.

WRU president Dennis Gethin called Morgan "one of rugby's greats."

"He also achieved so much off the field of play," Gethin said. "As a broadcaster, he became one of the best-known faces and voices of radio and television in the UK, and as a producer and editorial executive he reached the top of his profession."

Morgan was married to Nuala Martin for 45 years until her death in 1999. He is survived by two children and his second wife, Pat.