Leinster Rugby would like to offer its sincere condolences to the many friends and family of Dr Karl Mullen, who passed away on Sunday evening after a long illness…

Commenting on Karl Mullen’s passing, Leinster Branch President Des Kavanagh said: “Leinster Rugby are deeply saddened by the death of Karl Mullen, a man whose contribution to Irish sport will forever be written in the annals of time. Karl was an extraordinary man, a true leader of men in every sense who inspired all those who played with him.

“It is hard to find the words to best describe him. He was a leader, a man with a great love of life who cared deeply about his family and someone who had both wisdom and grace. He was universally respected for both his deeds and his character.

“It is fitting that he lived to see his great feat repeated this year when Ireland lifted the Grand Slam, for he was a keen enthusiast and lover of both the game and his country, whom he represented with distinction.

“His passing will be felt not just by those who knew him, but by all those who loved the game. We extend our sympathies to his daughters Louise, Niamh, Mary, Gaye and Anna, sons Karl, Paul and Marc, their partners, his 18 grandchildren and the family’s friends.”

Educated in Belvedere College SJ and UCD and a Life Member of Old Belvedere RFC, Dr Mullen was best known as Ireland’s 1948 Grand Slam winning captain, while he also held the prestigious honour of captaining the 1950 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia and New Zealand.

A commanding hooker, he led each team he played for from the front with great heart and courage. After his retirement from the game he held a number of administrative roles with the Leinster Branch, including the office of President in season 1963-64, while he was also the President of the Wolfhounds.

Predeceased by his late wife Doreen who passed away a year ago, he will be sadly missed by his daughters Louise, Niamh, Mary, Gaye and Anna, sons Karl, Paul and Marc, their partners, his 18 grandchildren and the family’s friends.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam