The Lions have confirmed the death of player Hyron Andrews ahead of their opening Champions Cup fixture against Stade Rochelais on Saturday. The 31-year-old former Sale Sharks lock died suddenly on Friday morning, with French reports indicating he was found unresponsive in a shower cubicle at the team's hotel in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré. Despite paramedics' efforts, he was declared dead at the scene.
Club statement and tributes
The Lions said in a statement: "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."
Career and support
Chief executive officer Rudolf Straeuli added: "We are heartbroken by the passing of Hyron. He was not only a gifted rugby player, but also a cherished member of our Lions family having recently joined us this season."
Andrews began his career in the Bulls academy, then spent ten years with the Sharks, playing 77 times for the senior side. He later made 45 appearances for Sale Sharks before leaving this summer.
Stade Rochelais head coach Ronan O'Gara reportedly visited the team's hotel to offer condolences. The hotel's management told ICI La Rochelle that a psychological support unit has been set up for staff and the squad.
Match to proceed
EPCR confirmed the match would go ahead as planned, with a minute's silence before every fixture this weekend. EPCR Chairman Dominic McKay said: "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 10bet Lions and all those who knew and loved him at this incredibly difficult time."
The club said further details of an "appropriate tribute" would be announced in due course.
