Auckland Rugby is saddened to hear of the passing of former Auckland, Maori All Black and All Black representative Keith Davis. Throughout his career Davis was awarded the Tom French Cup for Maori Player of the Year consecutively from 1952-54.

Davis was born in Whakatane and then educated in Auckland at Sacred Heart College where he played for the 1^st XV from 1947-49.

Playing at halfback he was selected for Auckland in 1952 (Cap #786) playing a total of 53 games and scoring 27 points. His final match came in the 1958 season.

His debut was one of the more memorable, claiming the Ranfurly Shield from Waikato in a 9-0 victory.

Davis gained selection to the Maori All Blacks and All Blacks in the same year with his full Test debut against Australia on September 13, 1952.

Davis’ final All Blacks match was in 1958 while he continued for one more year in 1959 with the Maori All Blacks.

After retiring from the game, he continued to be involved as a coach and selector of his club side Marist, and the Maori All Blacks in the 1960s.

Auckland Rugby extends its condolences to Keith’s family and friends at this time.