Lions forward Andrews dies suddenly ahead of match in France

South African rugby team the Lions have confirmed the sudden death of second-row forward Hyron Andrews at the age of 31. Andrews died following an accidental fall at the team's hotel on the Ile de Re in France, where the squad was preparing for a Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle. Emergency services attempted resuscitation after finding him in cardiorespiratory arrest, but were unsuccessful.

The Lions announced that Saturday's match against La Rochelle will go ahead in honor of Andrews. Tributes were paid by Lions chief executive Rudolf Straeuli, South African Rugby Union president Mark Alexander, and Andrews' former English club Sale Sharks, where the lock forward made 45 appearances over two years before rejoining the Lions.