Rugby star Hyron Andrews dies suddenly aged 31

Tributes are flowing for much-loved rugby star Hyron Andrews who has died suddenly in his hotel room on the eve of a Champions Cup game.

The 31-year-old Johannesburg Lion was found dead in the shower at the Atalante-Relais Thalasso hotel on the Île de Ré.

He reportedly fell after having a heart attack. The shower was locked from the inside.

Medical crews rushed to the hotel when his body was found at around 10am, but Andrews could not be revived.

The death has sent shockwaves around the rugby community with the South African lock representing several teams including the KZN Sharks and Sale Sharks.

“This is terrible and distressing news; our hearts go out to Hyron’s family and the whole Lions rugby community,” said South African Rugby Union president Mark Alexander.

“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.”

Andrews was about to step out for the Lions in the Champions Cup tournament on Saturday.

A moment’s silence is now being held to pay tribute to Andrews in every Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup match across weekend.

The Lions were to face off against La Rochelle on Saturday and they have since confirmed the match will go ahead.

“The Lions Rugby Company is deeply saddened by the passing of player Hyron Andrews while on tour with the 10bet Lions ahead of their Investec Champions Cup and Vodacom United Rugby Championship fixtures,” the team said via a statement.

“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.