Cape Town –Bulls director of rugby, Jake White, broke down in tears during a press conference while speaking about the sudden passing of former Springbok Cornal Hendricks, who died of a suspected heart attack on Wednesday night in his hometown of Wellington.
Ahead of their United Rugby Championship (URC) match against the Dragons, the Bulls announced tributes including flying flags at half-mast, a minute’s silence, and applause in the 14th minute — honouring Hendricks’ jersey number.
White revealed he had been in talks with Hendricks about returning to the Bulls in a management or coaching role.
😢 ℝ𝔸𝕎 𝔼𝕄𝕆𝕋𝕀𝕆ℕ𝕊 😢
Vodacom Bulls director of rugby Jake White couldn’t hold back the tears when touching on the kind of person Cornal Hendricks was, following his passing on Wednesday night 🕊️
🎥 @Gallo_Sport #SABCSportRugby pic.twitter.com/NcY3Y9C7qD
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) May 16, 2025
Hendricks had revived his career with the Bulls after overcoming a previous heart-related health scare, playing 73 games from 2017 to 2024 before joining Boland.
The team was deeply affected by his death, with players choosing not to train on Thursday.
White reflected on how such moments are a stark reminder of life’s realities beyond the rugby field.
The Vodacom Bulls are deeply saddened by the passing of Cornal Hendricks, aged 37. A 12-time capped Springbok and key player for the Vodacom Bulls from 2018 to 2023, Cornal was known for his passion, energy, and infectious smile both on and off the field.
CEO Edgar Rathbone… pic.twitter.com/4luafVgQg4
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) May 15, 2025
Tributes poured in, including from Springbok Willie le Roux, a close friend of Hendricks, and from Dragons coach Filo Tiatia, who laid flowers at Loftus and praised Hendricks for both his on-field talent and off-field impact.
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
