The Rugby Associations of England and wales(WRU) , messages of condolence after the death of John Williams

John Williams, who was the first Springbok coach post-isolation, died at the age of 78 on Thursday morning.

Williams coached the Springboks in 1992, the year they were allowed back into the international fold after being excluded because of apartheid.

Bulls president Willem Strauss confirmed the news of Williams’ death to News24. Williams died in a Pretoria hospital after being in a coma the past 10 days.

The Boks won only one of their five Tests in 1992, with Williams replaced as head coach by Ian McIntosh the following season.

Williams also had success as a coach of Northern Transvaal (now called Bulls). He won the Currie Cup with the team in 1987, 1988 and 1991 and shared the title with Western Province in 1989.

After his tenure as Bok coach ended, Williams returned for a second spell as Bulls mentor in the mid-1990s.

Williams, who was over 2 metres tall, was also a prolific rugby player and starred as a lock for the Bulls in the 1970s. He also played 13 Tests for the Springboks during that period.

Tom Ilube, the RFU chair, sent an emotional message to the south African rugby union chairman:

 “ We were deeply saddened to learn of the death of John williams. He was taken from us far too soon. williams was a legendary figure in SA Rugby football, We pay tribute to a player who leaves behind a lasting legacy. On behalf of the English Rugby Association, we stand with SA Rugby in this loss. Please pass on our condolences to his family and those who knew him.”

For his part, Richard Collier-Keywood, the chairman of the (WRU), said in the letter sent: “On my own behalf and on behalf of the Board of Directors of the (WRU)Federation, I express my deepest condolences for the death of the former coach and player, John williams. I convey all our support and sympathy to the bereaved family.”