Des Van Jaarsveldt Dies at 96, Passing Torch to New Oldest Living Springbok

• South Africa Rugby community mourn as former Springbok captain Des van Jaarsveldt passes at 96
• The former Bok captain was the oldest living Springbok as at the time of his passing, with a new person taking up the position
• The new oldest living Springbok was voted the greatest player of the 20th century by South African rugby supporters 25 years ago

A new oldest living Springbok has emerged after the passing of the former holder of the title, Des van Jaarsveldt, who died at the age of 96 and 112 days.

The former Springbok captain had the whole South African Rugby community paying their respects, with tributes pouring in since the confirmation of his death on Monday.

He was born in Rhodesia on March 31, 1929, and featured in just one Test match for the Springboks, where he captained the team.

SA Rugby Legends Association confirmed Des's death

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On Facebook, the SA Rugby Legends Association (SARLA) released a heartfelt tribute while confirming the death of van Jaarsveldt.

"This morning, we bid farewell to a legend," the association posted on Facebook.

"Des van Jaarsveldt, the oldest living Springbok and Springbok captain, passed away at the age of 96. Though he wore the green and gold in just one Test match as captain, his impact on the game was profound.

"In 1960, at the age of 31, he led South Africa to an 18–10 victory over Scotland, scoring a try in his debut Test, which was also his only Test.

"Born in Rhodesia in 1929, Des proudly represented Rhodesia from 1947 to 1962, racking up 62 appearances and a lifetime of rugby memories. He remained involved in the game through coaching and administration and was a cherished friend and supporter of SARLA throughout the years.

"Thank you for the legacy, the leadership, and the love for rugby. Rest peacefully, Des. 🕊️"

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New oldest living Springbok

With Des' passing, Frik du Preez is now the oldest living Springbok at the age of 89 years and 236 days as of this writing.

According to World Rugby, du Preez is an all-round player and made a name for Northern Transvaal as a goal-kicking flank forward. He made his debut for the Boks in 1961 as they defeated England 5-0, while his final match was a test series match against Australia in Sydney.

Frik retired as South Africa's most-capped player with 38 test appearances under his belt. He was voted Mzansi's greatest player of the 20th century in 2000 and was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2009.

Amor Vittone pays tribute to Joost

Briefly News also reported that Amor Vittone paid a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, Joost van der Westhuizen, eight years after his passing.

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Source: Briefly News