The Lions will fulfil Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup clash against La Rochelle in honour of teammate Hyron Andrews, who died in France on Friday morning.
Tournament organisers EPCR confirmed that the Lions players and management had collectively decided to go ahead with their opening-round fixture following the death of the 31-year-old lock.
Andrews died after an accident at the team’s hotel on the Île de Ré, where the Joburg-based side were preparing for their match against the French club.
EPCR also announced that a moment’s silence would be observed before every Champions Cup and Challenge Cup match this weekend in memory of Andrews.
“The thoughts of everyone at EPCR and the wider international rugby community are with Hyron’s wife Maiglin, his young sons, wider family, friends, teammates, the Lions and all those who knew and loved him at this incredibly difficult time,” said EPCR chairman Dominic McKay.
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander expressed his condolences on behalf of the South African rugby community.
“This is terrible and distressing news; our hearts go out to Hyron’s family and the whole Lions rugby community,” Alexander said.
“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.”
LIONS SADDENED BY THE PASSING OF STAR LOCK
With broken hearts, we mourn Hyron Andrews, a cherished member of our Lions family. Our thoughts are with Maiglin, Hendrix, Emerson and the entire Andrews family.
Rest in peace, Hyron.
Full statement: https://t.co/V8WppYBnPk https://t.co/lrVV5xLBqk
— Lions (@LionsRugbyCo) October 16, 2026
The post Lions play to honour Hyron appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Lions will fulfil Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup clash against La Rochelle in honour of teammate Hyron Andrews, who died in France on Friday morning.
The post Lions play to honour Hyron appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
