Welsh rugby giant was told he had two years to live in terrifying health ordeal

New Scarlets signing Alex Groves has overcome significant hurdles in his rugby career

By Steffan Thomas · Wales Online

Published: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 6:27 AM

Key Things to Know

Scarlets lock Groves was previously warned by doctors that he had just two years to live due to a heart condition.
Routine screenings and follow-up scans at Sale Sharks discovered a deteriorated leaking valve and an aortic aneurysm.
Groves underwent a successful seven-to-eight-hour heart surgery before reviving his rugby career.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Scarlets lock Groves revealed he was once warned by surgeons that he had only two years to live after routine screening uncovered severe cardiac issues and an aortic aneurysm. The life-threatening conditions were identified while he played for Sale Sharks, requiring an emergency seven-to-eight-hour surgery that successfully saved his life and rugby career.

Following his recovery, the 6ft 9in former England U20 international returned to South Africa before joining Welsh club Scarlets, where he is now preparing to make his first start against the Dragons.

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Welsh rugby giant was told he had two years to live in terrifying health ordeal

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