SA Rugby president Mark Alexander has paid tribute to former Springbok hooker Jacobus Frederick Beatrix 'Piston' van Wyk, who passed away over the weekend at the age of 82.
Van Wyk earned 15 Test caps between 1970 and 1976, representing Northern Transvaal and Natal during his career. His Springbok tenure began and ended against the All Blacks, and he also toured Australia in 1971 and faced the British & Irish Lions in 1974.
"It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Piston van Wyk, a former Springbok whose legacy is etched into the proud history of South African rugby," Alexander said. "Piston's career was marked by his formidable scrummaging strength, his unwavering commitment to the team and his memorable performances against some of the world's toughest opponents."
Alexander added that Van Wyk "embodied the resilience and pride of the Springbok jersey" and that his legacy extended beyond rugby through the dignity and integrity with which he carried himself.
SA Rugby extended its condolences to Van Wyk's family.