Former Stormers and Western Province prop Morné van der Merwe has passed away aged just 39 after losing his battle with brain cancer.
Van der Merwe made 11 appearances for the Stormers in 2001 and played 28 times for Western Province between 2000-2004.
"WP Rugby would like to extend its condolences to the family and friends of Morné van der Merwe, the former Stormers and WP prop forward who passed away this morning," read a statement on the Stormers website.
"Van der Merwe lost his battle with brain cancer on Friday, January 18 and leaves behind his wife Cindy and two children, Josh and Matt."
WP Rugby CEO Rob Wagner added: "Our condolences go out to Morné's family during this tough time.
"It is always sad when you lose a member of the WP Rugby family and we will remember a brave man who was also a great team man."
The funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Comments
Stellenbosched2 says...
So often upon reading this type of story I feel very sad yet I don't comment as there isn't anything I can add. But I think I have missed the point. We let our feelings be known over small issues like perceived ref bias etc. So I just thought it important to post this morning that I am thinking of Mornes family and friends. God be with you all.
Posted 05:01 21st January 2013
hellovanite says...
RIP...
Posted 11:54 20th January 2013
brands says...
peace brother.
Posted 07:02 20th January 2013
dafyddg84 says...
agreed, tragic to see such a player suffer so young.
Posted 13:26 18th January 2013
carpelone says...
Awful news, which put things into perspective.
My prayers are for him and his family
RIP.
Posted 13:24 18th January 2013
daibok says...
Very, very sad. RIP
Posted 12:26 18th January 2013