Lions player Hyron Andrews found dead before Champions Cup game against La Rochelle

Hyron Andrews, a member of the Lions squad, has been found dead in the team’s hotel before the South African side’s Champions Cup game against La Rochelle. The player is understood to have been found unconscious in the shower having reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest.Andrews could not be revived by emergency services after the alarm was raised at the Atalante-Relais Thalasso hotel on the Île de Ré. Lions players and staff have been informed and are said to be receiving support.Rudolf Straeuli, Lions CEO, paid tribute to the 31-year-old lock, who previously played for Sharks and Sale Sharks.“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.READ MORE“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. “On behalf of our Chairman, Mr Altmann Allers, the board and everyone at the Lions, I extend our deepest sympathies to Maiglin, their young sons Hendrix and Emerson and the entire Andrews family. We stand with them in their sorrow and will remember Hyron with great affection and respect.”“The Lions Rugby Company will communicate further details regarding an appropriate tribute in due course.“In honour of Hyron, the 10bet Lions will fulfill their opening match of the Investec Champions Cup against La Rochelle tomorrow evening (18:30) South African time.“May Hyron rest in peace.”The tragic situation comes on the 10th anniversary of the death of the Munster coach Anthony Foley in a Paris hotel room in 2016. Foley, who was 42, died in his sleep on the eve of a European tie against Racing 92 after a heart condition caused fluid to build up in his lungs.La Rochelle head coach Ronan O’Gara was part of Racing 92’s coaching team at the time of Foley’s death and is believed to be in his way to the Lions team hotel to offer condolences and show support.Tributes are due to paid to him before this weekend’s game against Racing in Cork, with the Munster players set to wear commemorative presentation jackets featuring the club crest and the number eight, Foley’s position. – Guardian