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Former Springbok captain and loose forward Theuns Stofberg has succumbed to injuries suffered in a traffic collision outside Stellenbosch on Monday night.

The accident happened on the R304 outside Stellenbosch at around 7pm on Monday night and involved two other vehicles.

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

‘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.

‘However, his many injuries were too severe for his body to recover and he passed away early Wednesday morning.’

The Western Cape Government (WCG) said it is mourning the passing of a rugby great, known for his speed and strength and relayed its condolences to Theuns’ family, friends and all those who met him on and off the rugby field.

‘Theuns made a great impact on rugby in our country and helped bring joy through sport to many people during difficult times,’ said WCG Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais.

‘His untimely death due to a car accident comes as a great shock to us. He will always be remembered for his contribution to rugby in the province and at national level.’

Stofberg played 21 Tests for the Springboks between 1976 and 1984, captaining them in four, including against England in 1984.

Together with Morne du Plessis and Rob Louw, he formed a formidable Springbok back row.

Provincially, Stofberg played for Free State, Northern Transvaal (now Bulls) and Western Province and still holds the distinction of being the only player to win the Currie Cup with three different unions.

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