[Image: Cornal Hendricks Foundation / Facebook]
Former Springbok wing Cornal Hendricks has passed away at 37 after reportedly suffering a massive heart attack on Wednesday.
Hendricks made his Test debut in 2014 and went on to earn 12 caps for the Springboks, scoring five tries.
SARugby Mag reports that in 2016, Hendricks signed a two-year deal with Western Province and the Stormers, before being diagnosed with a serious heart condition that prevented him from playing for them.
A deal with French Top 14 side Toulon also fell through due to his diagnosis, and he retired from rugby aged 27, but in 2019, Hendricks’ improved health saw him make a comeback with the Bulls, where he earned 115 caps and scored 34 tries across all competitions during a five-year stay.
“Many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short in 2015,” said Bulls director of rugby Jake White on Thursday.
“When we had the opportunity to get him back on the park, he took that with open arms and made a remarkable use of his second lease in professional rugby. We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his teammates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage.
“It was a privilege and honour to have been his coach, a fantastic role model for the next generation and his appetite for life was infectious. Rugby has lost one of the good ones today.”
“Everyone’s thoughts at the club are with Cornal’s family, friends and his peers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone issued a statement, saying, “He knew how to deliver just about the right dose of energy to help lift a room, he was an iconic teammate, a friend for many seasons, and an inspirational figure in the locker room.
“A brother, a son and an inspiration to both the old and young. A man with such an infectious smile that brightened our world, and above all, we knew Cornal as a proud dad to his young kids.”
Rest in peace, Cornal.
[Source: SARugby Mag]
