FORMER ALL BLACK Dylan Mika has died suddenly at the age of 45, his family have announced.
Mika played two tests for Samoa before switching to New Zealand following a three-year stand-down period and played seven tests for the All Blacks, according to the New Zealand Herald.
He was also a member of the All Blacks’ 1999 World Cup squad, playing twice against Italy and South Africa during the tournament.
The 45-year-old had diabetes and is suspected to have died from a heart attack, according to reports in New Zealand.
His family issued a statement following his passing, in which they described him as a ‘warm wonderful caring man.’
“It is with great sadness that the family of Dylan announce that he passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Auckland.
“Dylan was a very much loved husband to Tracy, father to their daughter Marley, and dearly loved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.
“He was a hugely talented athlete, well respected in the Samoan community and abroad but just as importantly to his friends and family a warm wonderful caring man. Gone far too soon at the age of just 45.”
RIP Tiumalu Dylan Mika - #AllBlack982. It's with sadness we confirm that the former All Black & Manu Samoa star passed away suddenly today. Our thoughts are with his family. Ia manuia lou malaga.
— New Zealand Rugby (@NZRugby) March 20, 2018
READ https://t.co/OIxIvuPNTd pic.twitter.com/RKa4ZWvub1
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!
