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The Minister of Sport and Recreation South Africa Mr. Fikile Mbalula has learned about the passing of former Springbok scrumhalf Mr. Joost van der Westhuizen.

"The passing of Joost is a sad chapter in South African sporting history. His contribution to our national rugby team was immense. He leaves behind a generation of athletes who aspire for his legendary sportsmanship. We draw lessons from his fighting spirit in both the field playing for our national team and against motor neuron disease.

South Africa is poorer without this great giant and warrior of South African rugby. I send my sincere condolences to his family, his friends and to the entire sport fraternity." Minister Mbalula said.



Issued by GCIS on behalf of the Department of Sport and Recreation