Editorial: Collins leaves behind a proud legacy

Former All Black Jerry Collins and his wife Alana Madill were killed in a car accident over the weekend.

The news of the untimely death of former All Black hardman Jerry Collins in a car accident in France came as a huge shock to fans and all New Zealanders.

Collins, 34, and his partner, Alana Madill, were killed in the crash near Beziers in southern France on Friday night (NZT).

Their 4-month-old daughter Ayla was yesterday in a serious but stable condition in hospital in Montpellier.

As an international rugby player, Collins had made many friends, who along with his family, will be grieving the loss.

Players like Richie McCaw, who played alongside Collins in many a test match, have spoken of their sadness.

Nothing brings people together like playing on the same team and experiencing the highs and lows of winning and losing.

It is always incredible to see how the death of a famous person affects the general public. Television and social media make them very familiar to us, be they sport or movie stars or other well-known people. Certainly Collins' no-nonsense approach to his rugby and his commitment to the teams he played for, particularly the Hurricanes and All Blacks, won him many fans over the years. He was also one of the game's great characters and was always ready with a joke off the field.

I was at McLean Park for the Highlanders vs Hurricanes match on Friday when the news came through and you could have heard a pin drop when the crowd stopped for a moment to remember him.

Ma'a Nonu's two tries in tribute were also fitting.

Thoughts now turn to little Ayla in hospital in France.

Family and friends are gathering around to support her and I am sure she will be well loved.

She won't remember her father, but as she grows up she can be proud of all he achieved.