-
Former New Zealand forward Sione Lauaki has died at the age of 35
-
He had been suffering from heart and kidney problems
Loose forward Sione Lauaki, who played 17 Tests for the All Blacks and 70 Super Rugby games for the Waikato-based Chiefs, has died aged 35.
The Tonga-born flanker or number eight won 17 Test caps for the All Blacks between 2005 and 2008.
READ MORE:
-
Wales v England player ratings from the Principality Stadium
-
England beat Wales: how social media reacted
-
Six Nations 2017: Which rugby player are you?
In 2012, it was reported Lauaki – who played for Super Rugby club Chiefs as well as French sides Bayonne and Clermont – had been suffering from heart and kidney problems.
“The thoughts of everyone are with the family of Sione Lauaki. Gone too soon. RIP, Wax,” tweeted the All Blacks.
Damn. It’s a sad day today, rest easy dox @SioneLauaki 💔
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) February 11, 2017
35!? Way too soon!! RIP Sione Lauaki.. 😢😢 Such horrible sad news.. Thoughts & prayers are with his family in this time 🙏🏼
— Matt Giteau (@giteau_rugby) February 11, 2017
Sad news about @SioneLauaki …
I remember being on the receiving end of one of his fends a few years ago.
REST EASY.— Cory Jane (@CoryJane1080) February 11, 2017
Rest Easy @SioneLauaki #DoxBrothers
— Taione Vea (@TaioneVea) February 11, 2017
Sione lauaki.. played with but not against (thank goodness ) gone to soon wax.. rest in peace bruv @SioneLauaki 🙁
— Israel Akuhata Dagg (@izzy_dagg) February 11, 2017
Sad to hear the passing of @SioneLauaki. Love and prayers to the family.🙏
— Israel Folau (@IzzyFolau) February 11, 2017