Tributes to Andrews before Champions Cup matches

Tributes were paid to South African rugby player Hyron Andrews before Champions Cup and Challenge Cup matches after he died aged 31 at the Lions’ team hotel. The Lions chose to play their match against La Rochelle in his honour, with their coach saying the decision was about celebrating Andrews and supporting his wife and children.

The Lions lost 31-14, but La Rochelle supporters applauded the team and both sides wore black armbands during a minute’s silence. Andrews’ number five shirt was placed on the pitch, and three South African players from La Rochelle presented the Lions with a commemorative jersey. His former club Sale also held a tribute; after losing 47-27 to Glasgow, Sale’s director of rugby said the club would support Andrews’ family.