South Africa mourns player Hyron Andrews after fatal hotel fall

South African rugby player Hyron Andrews has died at the age of 31 after falling at the Johannesburg hotel where the Lions team were staying, hours before their European Champions Cup match against French side La Rochelle on Saturday.

The South African Rugby Union confirmed his death in an official statement, describing the incident as accidental. The news has shocked his teammates, family and the wider rugby community.

Andrews joined the Johannesburg Lions during the current season after returning to South Africa last summer following his spell with English club Sale Sharks.

Lions pay tribute to Andrews

Lions chief executive Rudolph Strauli expressed the club’s sadness following Andrews’ death, describing him as a talented player and a valued member of the team’s family.

Strauli also extended the club’s condolences to Andrews’ wife, Maiglin, their two children, Hendricks and Emerson, as well as his wider family and friends.

The Lions decided to play their match against La Rochelle in honour of Andrews, while a minute of silence was scheduled for matches across the opening round of the tournament to commemorate his life.

Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union, also expressed his shock at the news and offered condolences to the player’s family, teammates and supporters.

Former Sale Sharks player remembered

Andrews returned to South Africa last summer after making 45 appearances for Sale Sharks, having joined the English club from the Sharks in February 2024.

Alex Sanderson, Sale’s rugby manager, praised Andrews’ character both on and off the field, describing him as the perfect teammate and a lovable person with a sense of humour who was appreciated by those around him.

Although Andrews did not represent South Africa at senior international level, he played for the country’s youth national team in 2015.

His death has also recalled the passing of former Irish Munster coach Anthony Foley, who died in Paris in 2016 before a European Champions Cup match.

Lions prepare for European competition

The tragedy comes as the Lions prepare to compete in the European club championship. South African teams joined European competitions in the 2022-23 season.

The Lions had made a positive start to the United Rugby Championship campaign before the loss of Andrews.