Former Sale Sharks lock Andrews dies at team hotel in La Rochelle

Andrews joined Sale in February 2024 and made 45 appearances for the club before heading back to his native South Africa at the end of last season Former Sale second row Hyron Andrews has died at his Johannesburg Lions' team hotel before their Champions Cup match at La Rochelle on Saturday. A statement from SA Rugby stated that his death had been an "accident" and that the 31-year-old had "died after a fall". It was incredible to he and his family embraced the club and area. "Most importantly, he was a loving husband to Maighlin and a doting father to his two gorgeous boys. It was an absolute privilege to get to know him and it's just absolutely devastating for everyone." While he was yet to earn senior international honours, Andrews had represented the Junior Springboks in 2015. Andrews' death comes 10 years on from the sudden death of Munster coach Anthony Foley in Paris before a Champions Cup fixture. Foley, 42, died in his sleep on the eve of a match against Racing 92 after a heart condition caused fluid to build up in his lungs. Munster's present-day players will wear commemorative tops, featuring the Munster club crest and Foley's shirt number eight as part of their pre-match routine at their match against Racing on Saturday. The Lions, who play their home matches at Ellis Park, are making their first appearance in Europe's premier club competition, with South African sides introduced into the continental competition in the 2022-23 season.