Former Sale second row Hyron Andrews has died at his Johannesburg Lions’ workforce lodge earlier than their Champions Cup match at La Rochelle on Saturday.
A press release from SA Rugby said that his dying had been an “accident” and that the 31-year-old had “died after a fall”.
“We’re heartbroken by the passing of Hyron,” mentioned Lions chief government Rudolf Straeuli.
“He was not solely a gifted rugby participant, but additionally a cherished member of our Lions household having just lately joined us this season.
“On behalf of our chairman, Mr Altmann Allers, the board and everybody on the Lions, I lengthen our deepest sympathies to [Andrews’ wife] Maighlin, their younger sons Hendrix and Emerson and the whole Andrews household.
“We stand with them of their sorrow and can keep in mind Hyron with nice affection and respect.”
The Lions will fulfil their fixture in opposition to La Rochelle, which kicks off at 17:30 BST, in Andrews’ honour, whereas a second’s silence shall be noticed in any respect the opening spherical’s fixtures.
“That is horrible and distressing information; our hearts exit to Hyron’s household and the entire Lions rugby group,” mentioned Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union.
“There aren’t any phrases to adequately convey our shock and the depth of sympathy we really feel for his spouse Maighlin, and for his prolonged household, buddies, team-mates and family members throughout this time of immense sorrow.
“His premature passing is a devastating loss, and we share within the grief of all who knew and liked him.”