The South African Rugby Union on Tuesday passed on its condolences to the new Zealand rugby community following the death of former All Black and NZRU chairman Jock Hobbs. Mr Hobbs had endured a long battle with cancer but was well enough to take his place on the field following during last year’s Rugby World Cup to deliver a brave and moving tribute to All Black skipper Richie McCaw.
“Although he had been ill for some time, this still comes as a very sad day for rugby in New Zealand and around the world,” said SARU president, Mr Oregan Hoskins. “Jock’s wife, Nicky, his children and the rest of his family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
“Jock was a great ambassador and advocate for New Zealand rugby and we will miss his engagement quite as much as will New Zealanders. As a player and as an administrator he made an impact in world rugby and one of the enduring memories will be of his appearance on the field during the Rugby World Cup last year.
“I’m sure it was a great comfort to his family and to the New Zealand rugby community that he was able to enjoy that day in the midst of his battle against illness. We’ll all miss him.”