Condolences pouring in for the giant-taming wing
But on the day Small remained unshaken by the elements of history, and assisted the Springboks to a victory that will forever be in the records of the Rugby World Cup.
James Small, the former Springbok rugby player with 47 test caps to his name, passed away at the age of 50 after succumbing to a heart attack.
He was one of the heroes of the 1995 Rugby World Cup and South African rugby fanatics will forever hold in their memory his outstanding performance in the final match of the tournament at Ellis Park.
The Springbok winger put his body on the line to tame the All Blacks giant, Jonah Lomu who tormented many teams in the 1995 world Cup.
Read the initial article here:
https://roodepoortnorthsider.co.za/300297/watch-james-small-passes-away-cape-town/
Lomu had scored seven tries in matches leading up to the World Cup final, including four the week before in the semi-final against England. The aggressive runner was expected to spearhead the New Zealand victory.
But on the day Small remained unshaken by the elements of history, and assisted the Springboks to a victory that will forever be in the records of the Rugby World Cup.
Following the tragic news, tributes have been pouring in for one of world rugby’s greats. Former team mates, past players and rugby organisations are taking to social media such as Twitter to express their condolences.
Joel Stransky tweeted: “Yesterday was consumed by the devastating news of #JamesSmall passing. A true legend of life itself and of our beautiful game. Passionate & fiercely competitive, a brother who touched all our lives in the most inspirational way! RIP James!”
John Smith tweeted: “RIP James. I never had a dull conversation with this legend. He oozed passion and demonstrated conviction in everything he did. Privileged to have had him as a hero growing up and then a friend.”
The All Blacks tweeted: “We are saddened to learn that @Springboks great and 1995 @rugbyworldcup winner James Small has passed away. A fierce competitor on the field and great friend off it, James will be missed by the entire global rugby community. Rest in Peace, legend.”
The British and Irish Lions tweeted: “We’re deeply saddened to learn of James’ passing. The thoughts of all at The British & Irish Lions are with James’ family and friends. #RIPJamesSmall.”
