TRAGEDY IN FRANCE
Mike Greenaway|Published
South African rugby was plunged into mourning on Friday following the tragic death of Lions lock Hyron Andrews in an incident at the team’s hotel in France.
According to an SA Rugby statement, Andrews, 31, who also enjoyed a lengthy stint with the Sharks in Durban and played for Sale Sharks in England, died after falling at the Lions’ hotel in La Rochelle, where they are scheduled to face the French club in the European Champions Cup on Saturday evening. Media reports in France suggest the lanky lock was in cardiac arrest after being found in his hotel shower after a suspected heart attack
The Lions have elected to go ahead with the match in honour of their teammate, with kick-off at 6.30pm. European Professional Club Rugby, the governing body for the Champions and Challenge Cups, confirmed a moment’s silence will be held ahead of every match this weekend for Andrews.
Born in Paarl, Andrews attended Hoërskool Garsfontein in Pretoria and represented the Junior Springboks in 2015. He made more than 100 appearances for the Sharks between 2016 and 2024, establishing himself as a valued member of the Durban club before moving abroad.
South African Rugby Union president Mark Alexander expressed his condolences to Andrews’ wife, Maighlin, his family and the wider Lions community.
“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.
“His untimely passing is a devastating loss, and we share in the grief of all who knew and loved him. The thoughts and prayers of the entire South African rugby family are with Maighlin and all those mourning his loss. May they find strength, comfort and peace in the memories they shared with him and in the support of those around them.”
The Sharks, where Andrews spent a significant part of his professional career, also paid tribute to their former lock.
“The Sharks Rugby Club is deeply saddened by the passing of former player Hyron Andrews, a statement said.
“Hyron spent more than a decade as part of the Sharks family, making a valued contribution to the club throughout his career.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his wife Maighlin, his young sons, friends, current and former teammates and everyone at the Lions during this incredibly difficult time.
“Rest in peace, Hyron.”
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