South African rugby player Hyron Andrews has died at the age of 31 while touring France with the Lions, shortly before the team’s first Investec Champions Cup match against Stade Rochelais. The European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) confirmed his death on Friday, October 16, 2026, but did not share further details. Andrews had recently joined the Johannesburg-based club after playing for the Sharks in South Africa and Sale Sharks in England.




Who was Hyron Andrews? His rugby career with the Sharks, Sale Sharks and LionsHyron Diego Andrews was born on July 6, 1995, in Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa. He played as a lock, also known as a second-row forward, a position that requires strength, good timing and the ability to compete for the ball during lineouts. Standing 2.03 metres tall, he became a familiar name in South African domestic rugby before moving to England to continue his professional career.




Andrews began his rugby journey through South Africa’s youth system. He represented the Blue Bulls at youth level and was selected for the South Africa Schools squad in 2012. After joining the Sharks Academy, he continued to develop his game and later represented South Africa at Under-20 level. He also played at the 2015 World Rugby Under-20 Championship, where South Africa finished third.




His senior career took shape with the Durban-based Sharks, where he played in the Currie Cup and Super Rugby competitions. Years with the club helped him establish himself as a professional forward before he moved overseas.




In February 2024, Andrews joined England’s Sale Sharks on a short-term deal to provide cover for injured lock Jonny Hill. His performances earned him a longer stay, and he went on to make 45 appearances for the club. He became a valued member of the team during his time in England.




Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson praised Andrews as an exceptional teammate, highlighting his ability, humour and personality. His family also became part of life in Manchester during his spell with the club.




Andrews returned to South Africa ahead of the 2026-27 season and joined the Lions in Johannesburg. He featured in the team’s opening United Rugby Championship matches and was part of the squad preparing for a historic first appearance in the Investec Champions Cup. He was married to Maighlin Andrews and had two young sons.




How did Hyron Andrews die? Lions confirm death before Champions Cup matchAndrews died on Friday, October 16, while the Lions were staying in France for their Champions Cup opener against Stade Rochelais. According to reporting by Reuters, the 31-year-old was found unconscious in a shower area at the team’s hotel on Île de Ré. Emergency services tried to revive him, but their efforts were unsuccessful.




The exact circumstances of his death had not been fully established when the news was announced. French authorities were investigating the incident, and no confirmed final cause of death had been made public. The European Professional Club Rugby did not provide further details in its initial statement, and it is important not to treat early reports about the incident as a confirmed explanation.




The news left the Lions facing a difficult decision ahead of a major moment in the club’s history. The Johannesburg side was preparing to play its first-ever Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle on Saturday, October 17. Following discussions within the team, the players and management chose to go ahead with the fixture in honour of Andrews.




EPCR chairman Dominic McKay also offered his condolences to Andrews’ wife, Maiglin, their two young sons, his wider family, teammates and everyone who knew him. The United Rugby Championship shared its condolences with the family and the Lions, while his former clubs also paid tribute to the player.




A moment of silence was scheduled before every Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup match during the weekend as a mark of respect. Sale Sharks, where Andrews had spent two seasons before returning to South Africa, also announced plans to remember him at their match against Glasgow Warriors.