Many in the rugby community have been in mourning since learning of the tragic drowning of the infant son of Jannie du Plessis on Tuesday. The former South Africa prop, along with his brother Bismarck, was a stalwart in the Springbok side that took home the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
Sad details indicate that the accident happened in a swimming pool at the du Plessis home while celebrating Jannie’s 39th birthday.
His current Lions chief executive Rudolf Straeuli stated: “I can confirm that this tragedy took place. We are all devastated.”
More condolences have started to pour in.
The Sharks extend our deepest condolences to @JannieDup3 , Ronel and the entire Du Plessis family on the tragic loss of his young son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time đ¤
â The Sharks (@SharksRugby) November 17, 2021
Please pray for jannie du Plessis and his family his son of 1 year old drown last night my hart is broken broken broken @SuperSportTV @kykNETtv #So so sad pic.twitter.com/pFwA2cSs2R
â Toks van der Linde (@toksvdl) November 17, 2021
The game that changed Jannie du Plessis:
Speaking to the media ahead of their clash with England, current Springbok forward Duane Vermeulen said:
“They will be on our minds and all our condolences to Jannie and his family back home.
“It is a difficult time for them, but we will stand behind them and support them.”
Our condolences go out to the family during this terrible time of grief and loss.
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