Former Australia captain Keith Barnes, nicknamed ‘Golden Boots’, dies aged 89

Former Australia Kangaroos captain and Balmain Tigers rugby league legend Keith Barnes has died aged 89.

A member of the National Rugby League Hall of Fame and considered one of the greatest players of his era, Barnes was one of the greatest players to ever wear the black and gold of the Tigers.

His death was announced Monday morning.

Barnes played 194 premiership matches for Balmain from 1955 to 1968, and never played as a reserve.

Nicknamed “Golden Boots”, Barnes was one of the great kickers.

He scored 954 goals in first division and representative matches, 742 of them for the Tigres.

Barnes played 17 Test and World Cup matches for Australia, 14 as captain, and scored 59 goals for the national team.

He played in three grand finals and lost them all to St George.

A stand is named after him at Leichhardt Oval, marking his legendary status in the history of Australian rugby league and Balmain.

“Keith was one of the greatest defenders the game has ever seen,” Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys said.

“A wonderful goal kicker and prolific point scorer, he was small in stature but possessed extraordinary courage.

“Stories of Keith’s skills, but also more importantly his leadership, are recognized throughout the game as they captained the Kangaroos in 14 Test matches.

“Keith’s legend continued long after his playing career. He was instrumental in guiding many of football’s greats, especially through his long association with Balmain.

“He was deservedly recognized for his contribution to the game with his induction into the NRL Hall of Fame in 2007.”