- Lions star lock Hyron Andrews, 31, died on Friday 16 October while the team was based on the Île de Ré off France's western coast
- The Lions and SA Rugby both released statements confirming Andrews' death, with SA Rugby indicating he passed away following an accident on duty
- Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and his ex-wife Rachel Kolisi were among those who reacted publicly to the news of Andrews' passing
Lions lock Hyron Andrews died on Friday 16 October at the age of 31 while the Lions were on a training camp in France, sending shockwaves through the South African rugby community.
According to reports, Andrews was discovered unconscious in a shower cubicle at the team's hotel on the Île de Ré, an island off France's western coast, where the squad had been based since Tuesday. Emergency services arrived shortly after 10 am, attending to the player who was in cardiorespiratory arrest. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
SA Rugby and the Lions confirm Andrews' death
The Lions released a formal statement expressing their grief and extending condolences to Andrews' family. "It is with broken hearts that we mourn the passing of Hyron Andrews, a valued member of our Lions family.
Our deepest condolences go to Maiglin, Hendrix, Emerson, and the entire Andrews family during this incredibly difficult time," the club wrote, adding, "Rest in peace, Hyron. You will always be part of our family."
SA Rugby also issued a statement, indicating that Andrews died "following an accident while on duty with his team in France." SA Rugby president Mark Alexander described the news as devastating.
"This is terrible and distressing news; our hearts go out to Hyron's family and the whole Lions rugby community," Alexander said.
"There are no words to adequately convey our shock and the depth of sympathy we feel for his wife Maighlin, and for his extended family, friends, teammates and loved ones during this time of immense sorrow. Hyron was a respected member of the rugby community whose contribution to the game and impact on those around him will be remembered with great fondness," Alexander added.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi took to his Instagram Story to honour his fellow player, writing simply: "RIP my brother." His ex-wife Rachel Kolisi also responded to the Lions' official post, sharing three broken heart emojis to express her grief.
Andrews is survived by his wife, Maighlin, and their children, Hendrix and Emerson.
Source: Briefly News