Share

WP: Joost an inspiration to a generation of players

Cape Town - The Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU) has issued a statement mourning the passing of Springbok legend, Joost van der Westhuizen.

Van der Westhuizen passed away at his home after a long battle with motor neuron disease, having first been diagnosed with the illness in 2011.

WPRFU called Van der Westhuizen an "inspiration to a generation of rugby players in South Africa."

The full statement read:

"The Western Province Rugby Football Union mourns the passing of Springbok legend Joost van der Westhuizen.

The 89-Test scrumhalf served his country with passion and was an inspiration to a generation of rugby players in South Africa.

The thoughts of the WPRFU are with his two children, Jordan and Kylie, as well as the rest of the Van der Westhuizen family at this difficult time.

After being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a form of motor neuron disease, Van der Westhuizen showed characteristic fighting spirit to hold off the debilitating illness.

A veteran of three Rugby World Cups, Van der Westhuizen scored 38 tries in his illustrious Springbok career and will go down as one of the greatest scrumhalves of all time.

He will long be remembered for his memorable performances at Newlands and around the world.

Rest in peace, Joost."



We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE