South African Rugby Mourns the Death of Springboks Legend
- Former Springbok centre Joggie Jansen passed away on Sunday after suffering a heart attack in Namibia at the age of 78
- Jansen earned 10 Test caps for South Africa between 1970 and 1972, and was remembered for one of rugby's most iconic tackles
- SA Rugby President Mark Alexander called Jansen's death a loss to the wider South African rugby family
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Former Springbok centre Joggie Jansen died on Sunday morning after suffering a heart attack in Otjiwarongo, Namibia, where he had been visiting at the time. He was 78.
Born in Griekwastad in the Northern Cape on 5 February 1948, Jansen was widely regarded as one of the most uncompromising defenders of his generation. He represented South Africa in 10 Test matches between 1970 and 1972, scoring one try, and also featured in five additional tour games for the Springboks, adding five further tries.
**Jansen's Legendary Tackle Against the All Blacks**
Jansen made his Test debut on 25 July 1970 against New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria and went on to appear in all four Tests of that series. It was during this campaign that he delivered what has since become one of the most celebrated defensive moments in rugby history: a tackle on All Blacks flyhalf Wayne Cottrell that remains embedded in Springbok folklore.
Beyond that series, he also represented South Africa in Tests against France, Australia and England. At provincial level, he turned out for the Free State and was part of their 1976 Currie Cup-winning squad.
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**Alexander Pays Tribute to 'A Remarkable Rugby Man'**
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander led tributes to the late centre, describing his passing as a significant loss to the rugby community.
"Joggie Jansen was a proud Springbok who represented his country with the commitment and courage required to wear the green and gold jersey at Test level," Alexander said.
"He was a formidable rugby player and a wonderful example of the uncompromising spirit that characterised the Springboks of his generation. His famous tackle against New Zealand is part of Springbok folklore, but his contribution went far beyond one moment."
Alexander also reflected on the broader scope of Jansen's legacy, saying: "He leaves behind a legacy that stretches beyond his 10 Test appearances: that of a player who wore the green and gold in an extraordinary era and whose commitment, toughness and famous defensive skills have ensured that his name remains part of Springbok rugby folklore."
SA Rugby extended its condolences to Jansen's family, friends, and former teammates.
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Source: Briefly News
