Former Springbok coach and Sharks legend Ian McIntosh has died.
McIntosh coached the Boks in 16 Tests in 1993 and 1994 and was later also a national selector. It is understood he was 84 and, according to Sport24, had died from cancer.
He made his name with the Sharks in the late 1980s and 1990s and led the side to their first Currie Cup triumph in 1990.
Currie Cup winner
In total, McIntosh won the Currie Cup four times with the Sharks. He also coached the side to two Super Rugby finals.
In 2021, the Sharks honoured their former coach by naming the main entry gate to Kings Park Stadium after him.
McIntosh is believed to have passed away in an Umhlanga hospital early on Wednesday morning.
Tributes poured in for the man who affectionately called everyone in rugby “Master”.
Former World Cup winning lock, Kobus Wiese, who played under McIntosh at the Boks, said on Twitter: “Ian Mcintosh has passed away, a truly sad day. Fewer men has left such an impact through the great game of rugby on so many lives. His passion and commitment to the game was legendary. Mooi loop Uncle, may you rest on Peace.”
The Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa, headed by former KZN swimmer Charlene Wittstock, sent condolences to the family of McIntosh.
In a pots on Twitter the foundation said: “The Foundation is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of legendary Springbok coach, Ian McIntosh. Our hearts go out to his beloved wife Rhona and the entire McIntosh family during this difficult time. Your memory will live on forever in the rugby world.”
Former 2007 Rugby World Cup winner Bryan Habana called McIntosh a “remarkable man”.
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