Rugby clubs pay tribute to Hyron Andrews after his death aged 31

Tributes were paid to Hyron Andrews at rugby matches across Europe on Saturday after the South African lock died aged 31, with his former clubs Sale Sharks and the Lions among those honouring him before their fixtures. [1]

Andrews died at the Lions’ team hotel on Friday, the day before the Johannesburg club’s Champions Cup pool match against La Rochelle in France. The Lions said they would play in his honour; they lost 31-14.

La Rochelle supporters applauded as the Lions came on to the pitch and after a minute’s silence. Both teams wore black armbands, Andrews’ number five shirt was laid out in front of the Lions squad, and some players were in tears. La Rochelle’s South African players Dillyn Leyds and Salmaan Moerat presented the Lions with a commemorative jersey.

Before the game, Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen said the team had decided to “celebrate Hyron” and show respect to his wife and children. He said the match was “not about winning or losing” or rugby.

Tributes took place at all of the weekend’s Champions Cup and Challenge Cup fixtures, including Sale’s match against Glasgow Warriors. Sale lost 47-27.

Andrews spent just over two years at the English club before returning to South Africa at the end of last season. After the match, Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson said the squad had come together to support one another and Andrews’ family. He described Andrews as a close friend to many at the club and said his impact off the field had been even greater than his contribution as a player. [1]