Former South Africa star Cornal Hendricks has passed away at the age of 37.
Hendricks, who retired from the sport last year, suffered a heart attack on Wednesday evening.
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He featured in Tests for the Springboks in 2014 and 2015 while also represented the Blitzboks between 2011 and 2014.
The former Toyota Cheetahs and Vodacom Bulls back also earned a Commonwealth Games gold medal in Glasgow in 2014.
President of South Africa Rugby Mark Alexander, paid a heartfelt tribute to Hendricks.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Cornal Hendricks, a remarkable athlete who represented his country in sevens and fifteen-man rugby with distinction,” said Alexander.
“Cornal was one of those players who loved the game and he worked extremely hard, but he always did so with a smile on his face, treating all people with respect. His energy and love of life, on and off the field, lifted his teammates and those around him.
“His contributions to the sport and his unwavering dedication will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Stephaney and their children, his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations.”
Hendrick’s played in 12 Tests for his country, scoring five tries and featured in one non-Test match for the Springboks.
He clocked up a respectable 233 first-class matches across a career that spanned 17 years.
Hendricks started his professional career with Boland Cavaliers beofre moving on to represent the Cheetahs and the Bulls.
His final match was a Champions Cup quarter-final in 2024 against Northampton Saints.
