World Rugby chairman Beaumont knighted in UK honours list

LONDON (Reuters) - World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont has been recognised in the British New Year's Honours list with the former England captain given a knighthood for his services to the sport.

(Reuters)

Beaumont joins former England cricket captain Alastair Cook in receiving a knighthood, while Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas, England soccer coach Gareth Southgate and captain Harry Kane were also recognised.

"Rugby has been my life for more than half a century and has given me so much joy as a player, a father of rugby-playing sons and an administrator," said Beaumont, who played 34 times for England and seven times for the British and Irish Lions.

"I am fortunate to be in a position to give back to the sport I love ... (and) I am honoured and humbled to receive this

accolade."

(Writing by Greg Stutchbury; Editing by Peter Rutherford)