The New Zealand rugby community has been hit by the sudden death of former All Black prop, John Drake, at his home in Mt Maunganui.

Drake, age 49, played in the 1987 World Cup final where the All Blacks defeated the French to claim the first ever rugby World Cup. Although he only played eight Tests for the All Blacks, he is regarded as being one of New Zealand's finest props.

Drake has also become one of Sky Sports top rugby commentators alongside Grant Nisbett and Tony Jonston, and most recently commentated the Bledisloe Cup Test in Hong Kong. His commentating style was like no other, and he never shied away from saying what was on his mind - no matter how biased or unpatriotic it seemed. He certainly said things as he saw them, something which not all commentators seem willing to do.

He will certainly be remembered as one of the real characters of New Zealand rugby on and off the field.

The cause of his sudden death are not yet known - no doubt more news will emerge in the coming days.

Drake leaves behind his wife and three daughters.

We here at the Attic send our condolences to his family and friends at this terrible time.