10 Rugby Players Who Died 2023

10 Rugby Players Who Died 2023

10 Rugby Players Who Died 2023

10.David Duckham

David John Duckham, was a celebrated English rugby union player, renowned for his electrifying runs and exceptional agility. Born in Coventry, he attended King Henry VIII Grammar School, where his athletic prowess became evident. Duckham passed away in London at 76, leaving behind his wife Jean and three daughters.

9.Paul Rendall

Paul Rendall, affectionately known as "The Judge," was a distinguished English rugby union prop whose career spanned the amateur era's grit and camaraderie. Born on 18 February 1954 in Islington, London, he moved to Slough at age three and began his rugby journey at St Joseph’s Catholic High School. Diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2022, he passed away on 13 June 2023 at 69.

8.Hannes" Strydom

Johannes Jacobus "Hannes" Strydom, was a distinguished South African rugby union player renowned for his role as a lock in the Springboks' historic 1995 Rugby World Cup victory. Born in Welkom, Free State, Strydom's rugby journey began at Pearson High School in Port Elizabeth. Strydom passed away at 58 in a car accident near eMalahleni, Mpumalanga, on 19 November 2023.

7.Billy Guyton

Billy Guyton, was a talented New Zealand rugby union player whose promising career was tragically cut short by the effects of repeated head injuries. Born in South Canterbury, Guyton played for North Otago before making 52 appearances for the Tasman Mako between 2013 and 2017. On May 15, 2023, Guyton died by suspected suicide at the age of 33.

6.Ralph Nicolas

Ralph Nicolas "Nick" Köster, was a South African rugby union player renowned for his dynamic performances as a flanker and eighthman. Born in 22 February 1989 Robertson, Western Cape, he showcased early promise at Bishops Diocesan College. Tragically, on 12 July 2023, while receiving mental health treatment in Norfolk, England, Köster died by suicide.

5.Kenneth Scotland

Kenneth James Forbes Scotland, was a pioneering Scottish rugby union full-back, celebrated for transforming the role into an attacking force. Born in 29 August 1936 Edinburgh. He passed away from cancer at 86, leaving a legacy as a gentleman of the sport and an innovator who inspired generations.

4.Greig Oliver

Greig Oliver, born on September 12, 1964, in Hawick, Scotland, was a distinguished rugby union player and coach whose career spanned both national and international arenas. Tragically, on July 3, 2023, while in Cape Town to support Jack at the World Rugby U20 Championship, Oliver died in a paragliding accident.

3.John Sattler

John William Sattler, born on July 26, 1942, in Telarah, New South Wales, was a revered figure in Australian rugby league, renowned for his exceptional toughness and leadership. John Sattler passed away in March 2023 at the age of 80.

2.Lee Southall

Lee Southall, affectionately known as the "people's captain," was a cherished figure in Welsh rugby, remembered for his unwavering commitment and vibrant spirit. At 36, Lee tragically passed away on June 11, 2023.

1.Benjamin Jones

Benjamin Lewis Jones, affectionately known as the "Golden Boy" of Welsh rugby, was born on April 11, 1931, in Gorseinon, Wales. He remained a devoted supporter of the Leeds Rhinos until his passing on March 4, 2024, at the age of 92.