RugbyRebels

Dead at age 35, probably from the kidney and cardiovascular problems that pretty much ended his career.

https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/sport/r ... es-aged-35

For the record, I was probably the most vocal critic of his as a player on here, as I felt that he lacked the effort, work-rate or the self-discipline of a true top-level player, and I stand by my statement then, that calls by some posters on here to promote him as starting 8 ahead of Rodney So'oialo in his prime was preposterous and absurd.

Nevertheless, 35 is no age for anyone to die at, and I hope his family at least are secure while they recover from what is probably a fairly devastating loss.

Devastating player on the front foot thats for sure. You try tackling that. I can only imagine the merry hell he used to dish out at domestic club level.

35 is way too young. RIP.

Absolutely no way. RIP big man.

Way too young.

35 is no age. RIP

I didn't realise his condition was so serious. Very sad to hear.

Although he got some stick on here (and my hand is up for that one), it has to be remembered that he was being measured against the likes of So'oialo, Collins and Kaino - all World XV contenders in their day.

As a postscript, I have just seen Sione Lauaki's name in a list regularly published to lawyers, inquiring whether anyone in the profession holds a will for any of the listed people. I didn't see any mention of him having kids but often Island-born players support extended family back home. I hope him not having a will is not a problem for anybody.

No one expects to die at 35, but everyone who cares for anybody else should have a will. If you don't have one, look into it. It's not hard to do. Even a home made job is better than nothing and there is plenty of online guidance in most countries.