Former Springbok, Bulls, Cheetahs, and Boland wing Cornal Hendricks died on Wednesday night at the age of 37.
Cause of Death Confirmed
Doctors diagnosed Hendricks with a life-threatening heart condition towards the end of 2015. This is after he signed a deal to join the Stormers from the Cheetahs.
Although officials have not revealed the cause of his death, the 37-year-old reportedly suffered a massive heart attack on Wednesday.
Becoming a Springbok
Hendricks featured 13 times for the Springboks (3.74), the first appearance coming in an exhibition match against a World XV at Newlands in 2014, followed by 12 Test matches in which he scored five tries.
His Test debut came in South Africa’s 38-16 win over Wales at Kings Park Stadium on 14 June 2014. His final Springbok appearance was against the All Blacks at Ellis Park on 25 July 2015 under Heyneke Meyer. It was a less dominant era for South Africa than the current Rassie Erasmus era, but Hendricks made his mark.
Hendricks, an elite finisher, is best known for his lethal inside running lines. Additionally, his creative attacking skills on the international stage. He produced unforgettable performances and try-scoring feats during this time.
Domestic Career Trajectory
At provincial and franchise level, Hendricks represented the Boland Cavaliers in Wellington. This is the same with the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein and the Bulls in Pretoria.
In 2016, Hendricks signed a two-year deal with Western Province and the Stormers (3.15), before being diagnosed with a serious heart condition that prevented him from playing for them.
A deal with French Top 14 side Toulon also fell through due to his diagnosis. He retired from rugby at 27 years old.
In 2019, the Springboks’ improved health saw him make a comeback with the Bulls. There, he earned 115 caps and scored 34 tries across all competitions.
Honours Roll
In a career that spanned 16 years, intermittently, Hendricks’ milestones include two gold medals with the Blitzboks. This was at the 2013 World Games and the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Moreover, two Currie Cup trophies and a Currie Cup Player of the Year award.
Tributes Pour in After Hendricks’ Passing
Tributes and condolences pour in for the larger-than-life figure who refused to let his circumstances defeat him following Hendricks’ sudden passing.
“We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his teammates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage,” Bulls director Jake White said in a statement.
“It was a privilege and honour to have been his coach, a fantastic role model for the next generation, and his appetite for life was infectious. Rugby has lost one of the good ones today.”
In a club statement, the Bulls said: “We are deeply saddened and still trying to come to terms with the passing of Cornal, a brother, a son and an inspiration to both the old and young. A man with such an infectious smile that brightened our world.
“We offer our heartfelt condolences to his wife and children. May he rest in perfect peace.”
