FORMER SPRINGBOK CORNAL HENDRICKS DIES

The Bulls player and former Springbok Cornal Hendricks has passed away. He died from a heart attack at the age of 37.

Hendricks was diagnosed with a heart condition in 2015. He had to sit out for two years of rugby because a team wasn’t willing to sign him due to the condition.

In 2019, the Vodacom Bulls offered him a contract after well-known cardiologist Wouter Basson cleared him to play.

Hendricks had to undergo regular tests and be cleared annually before he was eligible to play for the Vodacom Bulls.

Basson made it clear that Hendricks’ heart condition and death had nothing to do with him playing rugby.

Vodacom Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone said the team has no regrets about signing Hendricks.

“The reality always was that rugby won't make it worse, but there will always be an issue with his heart - whether he plays rugby or whether he doesn't play rugby - it could have an impact in the long term.”

The Vodacom Bulls are set to play the Welsh team Dragons, on Saturday. The Dragons paid their respect by laying flowers at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

The Dragons' coach, Filo Tiatia, said his side was “deeply saddened by the loss”.

Before the start of the game on Saturday, a moment’s silence will be held in honour of Hendricks, and a minute of applause will take place in the 14th minute to pay tribute to his jersey number.

Image credit: France24