In tragic news that came to light on Friday, the Lions confirmed the death of veteran lock Hyron Andrews while on tour with the team ahead of their Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship fixtures.
This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the international rugby community.
“The former Sharks and Sale Sharks lock forward was a valued member of the Lions family, and his loss will be felt profoundly by his teammates, coaches, supporters and all who had the privilege of knowing him,” the statement from the Lions read.
“Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go to Hyron’s wife, Maiglin, their young sons, and the entire Andrews family. We hold them in our thoughts during this time of unimaginable grief and ask that their privacy be respected as they mourn. May Hyron rest in peace.”
Lions and rugby community at large in shock following death of Hyron Andrews
Rudolf Straeuli, Chief Executive Officer of the Lions Rugby Company added: “We are heartbroken by the passing of Hyron. He was not only a gifted rugby player, but also a cherished member of our Lions family having recently joined us this season.
“On behalf of our Chairman, Mr Altmann Allers, the board and everyone at the Lions, I extend our deepest sympathies to Maiglin, their young sons Hendrix and Emerson and the entire Andrews family. We stand with them in their sorrow and will remember Hyron with great affection and respect.”
The Lions Rugby Company said they would communicate further details regarding an appropriate tribute in due course.
In honour of the 31-year-old, the Lions will fulfil their opening match of the Champions Cup against La Rochelle on Saturday (18:30) South African time.
Tragic incident
As reported by TheSouthAfrican, Andrews is believed to have been found unresponsive in a shower stall at the team hotel.
Emergency services arrived shortly after 10am on Friday, but were unable to revive the player, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Although the cause of death has yet to be confirmed, SA Rugby stated that it was an “accident”.
The hotel confirmed to local website Ici La Rochelle that a psychological support unit had been set up for the Lions players and staff, as well as the hotel personnel.
Andrews – who was born in Pretoria – began his senior career at the Sharks, where he featured in more than 100 games in all competitions.
In 2024, he moved abroad to play for the Sale Sharks in England, racking up nearly 50 caps before heading to the Lions. He was also capped twice by the Junior Springboks.