Zuma sends Linee condolences

Johannesburg - President Jacob Zuma on Tuesday sent his condolences to the family and friends of former Springbok and Western Province rugby player Tinus Linee.

GALLERY: RIP TINUS LINEE

"We wish to convey, on behalf of government and the entire rugby loving nation of South Africa, our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr Linee, the Springboks and the entire rugby fraternity," Zuma said in a statement.

"May his soul rest in peace."

Linee died on Monday morning aged 45. He was diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease last year.

Linee played 112 matches at centre for his province between 1992 and 2001. He made his Springbok debut in 1993, aged 23.

He played nine tour matches for his country in Australia, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland between 1993 and 1994, but was never capped in a Test.

After hanging up his boots, Linee worked as a development officer for the union and was a member of the WP Vodacom Cup management team in 2008.

Linee is survived by his wife Diana, her two sons, and a daughter from his first marriage.