Tributes are being paid to Chester Williams, the former South Africa international, who died on Friday in Cape Town.
According to South Africa Rugby Union, Williams complained of chest pains after returning home from a gym session.
The 49-year-old was immediately rushed to hospital but passed away on arrival.
“Chester was a true pioneer in South African rugby,” said Mark Alexander, the president of SA Rugby.
“His performances at the World Cup in 1995, as a snapshot of his Springbok career, will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of our rugby public.”
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””] “The news of Chester’s passing is devastating and hard to believe, as he was still young and seemingly in good health.” [/perfectpullquote]
In a statement, South Africa Parliament select committee on Education and Technology, Sports, and Arts and Culture through Chairperson Mamagase Elleck Nchabeleng says the country has lost “a sport legend, a mentor and a guiding light”
“We have lost a sport legend, a mentor and a guiding light.” The loss of Chester reverberates through the country, and his legacy will live on through many people he inspired. The committee extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Williams,” reads part of the statement.
On the Springbok website, current coach Rassie Erasmus also expressed his sadness at his death.
“Our thoughts and prayers right now are particularly with the family that Chester has left behind, with Maria and the children. We have lost a legend, they have lost a husband and father,” Erasmus said.
“It’s probably no comfort to them now, but I am sure that Chester’s name will go down with the greats of South African rugby as a player and for what he stood for in our country’s history.”
Born in Paarl on 8 August 1970, Williams played for Western Province and the Golden Lions during his provincial career, which stretched from 1991 to 2000. He also had two seasons of Super Rugby with the Cats.
Williams was the only black player in the World Cup-winning side that defeated rivals New Zealand 15-12 after extra time at Ellis Park stadium.
He played 27 Tests for the Boks between 1993 and 2000, scoring 14 tries in that time and was named the SA Rugby Player of the Year in 1994.
Since retiring he has been active on the coaching circuit including stints with the Springbok Sevens team, Super Rugby’s Cats and the Pumas.
