SA Rugby president, Mr Mark Alexander, extended his condolences to the family and friends of Pirates rugby player Wayne Sibanda, who tragically passed away earlier today.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Wayne's family, friends and the people at Pirates,” said Mr Alexander.
“To lose someone dear to you is always tough, to lose one so young and with so much to give still, even more so. Wayne was a valued member at Pirates.
“Rugby fatalities are few and far between, so when it happens, we are all in shock. One death is one to many though and SA Rugby will, in partnership with our unions and clubs, continue to provide a framework in which player safety is treasured and extended.”
The club and the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Player's Fund will assist the family with funeral arrangements and costs.
The 21-year-old player fell ill after taking a knock to the head in a rugby match between Pirates Rugby Club and NWU-Pukke, played in Potchefstroom. Upon his return to Johannesburg after the match, Sibanda was admitted to the Helen Joseph Hospital for medical care.
During the early hours of Sunday morning, his condition deteriorated and he was transferred to Charlotte Maxeke Hospital on a ventilator to assist his breathing and to prepare him for brain surgery to relieve a brain haemorrhage. Surgery was cancelled after he was declared brain dead. His family were notified and he passed away at 05h00 this morning, 17 April.