Scotland rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan reveals he has prostate cancer and urges others to ‘get tested'
He's urging men to get tested after his own diagnosis
STAR'S BATTLE Scotland rugby legend Sir Ian McGeechan reveals he has prostate cancer and urges others to 'get tested'
LEGENDARY former Scotland player and coach Ian McGeechan has revealed he's been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The iconic ex-British & Irish Lions coach, 78, had to undergo a six-week course of radiotherapy treatment following a blood test.
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Sir Ian McGeechan revealed he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer
Credit: Rex
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Sir Ian McGeechan is knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Windsor Castle back in 2010
Credit: PA:Press Association
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Ian McGeechan was a successful coach for Scotland
Credit: PA:Press Association
Boring in Leeds, McGeechan made 32 appearances for Scotland between 1972 and 1979 and also represented the Lions.
His playing career ended in 1979 and he embarked on a highly successful coaching career.
That began as an assistant with Scotland before taking over as head coach for a five-year stint between 1988 and 1993.
He famously led Scotland to the Five Nations Grand Slam in 1990.
McGeechan has now revealed his diagnosis in an interview with the Telegraph and has urged other men to get tested.
He said: "I have just completed a six-week course of radiotherapy.
"I feel all right, really, just a bit more tired.
"I don't want to make a big thing of it, but it is important to get the message out about urging people to go and get tested.
"I said that to our players here, to make sure they get themselves tested.
"I have an opportunity here at Doncaster and I have a good family, and I just don't think any differently. I am trying to do all the right things for my health and fitness."
Andy Farrell picks Simon Easterby among British & Irish Lions coaching team
McGeechan was appointed Lions head coach in 1989 and was in charge for three consecutive tours to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, the latter coming in 1997.
He would return as Lions coach for the tour to South Africa in 2009.
McGeechan has also coached Northampton, Wasps and Bath in England.
The latter of those was his last coaching gig, before he moved into an executive role with Leeds in 2012.
McGeechan received an OBE for services to rugby in 1990 and was then given a knighthood 20 years later.
While he hasn't held a coaching role for many years, McGeechan has continued to be a prominent figure as a pundit.
He's worked for a host of broadcasters, including ITV and Sky Sports.
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