A Springbok legend passes away in a car crash

Theuns Stofberg, a legendary flanker and former Springbok captain, passed unexpectedly on Wednesday morning, just days before the 2023 World Cup.

In a collision on Monday night on the R304 near Stellenbosch involving two other vehicles, the 68-year-old sustained multiple injuries.

ALSO READ: RIP: Former Springbok captain passes away after accident

When was the Springboks legend death confirmed?

In a statement on Wednesday morning, Staphanus Rabie, Stofberg’s son-in-law, confirmed the death of the former Springbok flanker.

“Emergency services were able to cut Theuns out of the vehicle and transported him in critical condition to a private hospital, where he was treated in an intensive care unit.

ALSO READ: RIP: Former Springbok captain passes away after accident

“However, his many injuries were too severe for his body to recover and he passed away early Wednesday morning,” said Rabie.

Between 1976 and 1984, Stofberg participated in 21 Tests for the Springboks, serving as their captain four times, notably against England in 1984.

ALSO READ: SA Rugby mourns tragic passing of former Springbok

People’s reactions

Rob Louw, a talented loose forward himself, claimed in a tweet that Stofberg was possibly the 80s’ best number seven flank.

“He was a special player, ahead of his time. Morne du Plessis and I used to get together with him for a pizza and just to talk about the good times,” he said.

ALSO READ: Former Springbok captain in critical condition after car accident

“RIP my pal.”

In the 1980s, Du Plessis, Louw, and Stofberg made up a powerful Springbok back row.

Stofberg won the Currie Cup with three different unions while playing for the Free State, Northern Transvaal, and Western Province. He still holds this honor today.

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