Lions lock Hyron Andrews dies aged 31 in France

South African rugby has been left in mourning after Lions lock Hyron Andrews died suddenly in France while the team were preparing for their Investec Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle.

Lions confirm Hyron Andrews death

The Lions confirmed on Friday that the 31-year-old had died while on tour. SA Rugby said Andrews had died following an accident, while French reports said he was found unconscious at the team hotel.

Those reports said Andrews was discovered in a shower cubicle at the hotel on Île de Ré, near La Rochelle. Emergency services attended shortly after 10am and attempted to resuscitate him, but he could not be revived.

The Lions said Andrews’ death had sent shockwaves through the rugby community and offered condolences to his wife Maiglin, their young sons and the wider Andrews family.

"The Lions Rugby Company is deeply saddened by the passing of player Hyron Andrews while on tour with the 10bet Lions ahead of their Investec Champions Cup and Vodacom United Rugby Championship fixtures.

"This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the international rugby community. The former Sharks and Sale Sharks lock forward was a valued member of the Lions family, and his loss will be felt profoundly by his teammates, coaches, supporters and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Our deepest and most heartfelt condolences go to Hyron's wife, Maiglin, their young sons, and the entire Andrews family. We hold them in our thoughts during this time of unimaginable grief and ask that their privacy be respected as they mourn."

Former Sale Sharks lock had returned home

Andrews joined Sale Sharks from the Durban-based Sharks towards the end of the 2023/24 season on a short-term injury-cover deal before remaining with the English club for two further campaigns.

He made 45 appearances for Sale before returning to South Africa at the end of the 2025/26 season to join the Lions.

La Rochelle fixture to go ahead

The Lions confirmed that Saturday’s Champions Cup match against La Rochelle will proceed in Andrews’ honour.

The club said an appropriate tribute will be arranged at a later date, while Sale Sharks also announced plans to honour their former player ahead of their Champions Cup fixture against Glasgow Warriors.

Andrews had also previously represented South Africa at Under-20 level.