South Africa
South African Rugby Union pays tribute to 'superstar' John Gainsford
ESPN Staff
November 18, 2015
© Victor Drees/Evening Standard/Getty Images

Former South Africa centre John Gainsford has been hailed as a "superstar of his generation" after the the 77-year-old passed away following a long battle with cancer.

Gainsford played for the Springboks between 1960 and 1967, winning 33 Test caps and scoring eight tries.

In all he played 71 matches in the famous green jersey, and remained his country's record appearance maker until that mark was surpassed by Japie Mulder in 2001.

Having made his debut for Villagers Rugby Club at just 17, Gainsford played his first game for Western Province two years later and became a Springbok at 21.

Included in his career highlights were two tries against the British and Irish Lions during their 1962 tour, that contributed to South Africa's 3-0 series win.

Following his retirement from playing, Gainsford became a member of the Western Province Rugby Union executive.

"I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Gainsford family for their loss," said SARU President Mr Oregan Hoskins.

"John was a superstar of his generation and a he will go down in history as one of the greatest Springboks to have played the sport.

"He believed that rugby was played to be won, and he demonstrated this on the field with his line breaks, raw pace and power. I met him on many occasions. He was a great man."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices