Bok legend James Small dies of suspected heart attack
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Cape Town – Legendary Springbok rugby player James Small has died of a suspected heart attack.
His mother, Vaughn Small, confirmed to Netwerk24 that one of the heroes of the 1995 Rugby World Cup victory died on Wednesday around noon.
"We suspect it was a heart attack but it hasn't been confirmed yet," his mother said.
The 50-year-old Small, who had been visiting Cape Town, lived with his daughter Ruby in Johannesburg and was on his way back home. The 14-year-old Ruby's mother and Small's former wife is the well-known actress and model Christina Storm.
Small, the so-called bad boy of rugby, made his Test debut for the Springboks in 1992 against New Zealand. The former Stormers, Sharks and Lions wing represented his country in 47 Tests and played his last international in 1997.
Just heard the sad news about the ex @Springboks winger James Small who passed away today???? really sad! Rip big man!
— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) July 10, 2019
I'm shocked and v saddened to hear about James Small. Not the easiest oke to ref on the field but one of the kindest off it. Amazing self belief and always keen to challenge, its probably what made him special. A hero, a great Bok, a friend.. RIP Bro. You made the most of life!
— Jonathan Kaplan (@RefJK) July 10, 2019