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.

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.”