TRIBUTES have been paid to former All Black Alex Wyllie, who has died at the age of 80.

Flanker Wyllie, affectionately known as Grizz, played 40 matches for New Zealand — including 11 Tests — and captained his country three times between 1970 and 1973 before becoming head coach from 1987 to 1991, winning 58 of 64 matches in charge.

He also served as an assistant coach to Sir Brian Lochore for the All Blacks’ inaugural Rugby World Cup victory in the tournament co-hosted with Australia in 1987.