The 31-year-old Andrews tragically passed away on Friday at the team hotel in La Rochelle, where the Lions were preparing for their historic first-ever clash against the French giants in the Champions Cup.

A suspected heart attack was initially believed to be the cause of his untimely death. However, the post-mortem examination revealed that Andrews died from an aortic dissection, a serious condition involving a tear in the body’s main artery.

On Wednesday, the Lions Rugby Company, on behalf of the Andrews family, confirmed the cause of death in a statement.

“Lions Rugby Company, on behalf of the Andrews family, confirms that, following an autopsy report, Hyron’s death was found to be caused by an aortic dissection. This dissection most likely occurred on an aortic aneurysm.

“The French authorities, who conducted the autopsy and in whose care Hyron’s body currently remains, described the cause of death as ‘a tear in the aorta (due to natural causes), which led to a significant accumulation of blood within the sac surrounding the heart’.

Emotional Lions players ahead of their game against La Rochelle - SA Rugby

“The Andrews family asks for respect, privacy and patience during this difficult time as the repatriation process begins.

“A timeline for the return of Hyron’s body to South Africa has not yet been determined. Further information will be communicated when it becomes available and under the guidance of the family.”

Meanwhile, Lions scrum coach Julian Redelinghuys, who worked closely with Andrews, described the past few days as incredibly difficult for everyone involved, but said the support shown to the team had been remarkable.

The former Springbok loosehead prop added that the tragedy had also brought the squad closer together as they continued to navigate an emotionally challenging period.

“To say it was a rough week is probably a bit of an understatement,” said Redelinghuys.

“The support we received from people back home, the hotel staff, everyone at La Rochelle, their management, coaches, players and supporters was incredible.

“We spoke about it last night, and the sorrow everyone felt, along with the respect shown, was truly authentic.

“It was a sad event that shocked all of us, but the way everyone handled it, both locally and abroad, including our coaches, management and players, helped us find some closure.

Hyron Andrews - X

“We had a long travel day on Sunday, leaving the hotel at 7 am and only arriving here at 7 pm, but considering the circumstances, the mood in the camp is good.”

Despite the emotional toll of the past week, the Lions must now turn their attention back to the field as they prepare for their next United Rugby Championship assignment.

The Johannesburg-based side will face Scottish outfit Edinburgh at the DAM Health Stadium on Friday night, with kick-off scheduled for 20:45.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport