Va'aiga Tuigamala

Sadly, the man known as "Inga the winger" had passed away, aged 52. Tuigamala's cause of death has not been confirmed - however, he was about to launch a new video series on obesity in which he talks openly about his own health struggles, including being diagnosed with type two diabetes in recent years.

He is survived by his wife Daphne and four children.

Tuigamala played 39 games for the All Blacks, including 19 tests beween 1989 and 1993 before relocating to the United Kingdom to play rugby league for Wigan.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Mark Robinson acknowledged the heartache of losing both Joeli Vidiri and Fesolai Va’ainga Tuigamala this week.

He says it’s been incredibly difficult with the loss of two men who have such standing in rugby and in their communities.

“Joeli was a pioneer for Fijian rugby and set the platform for the many Fijian stars who have followed him. 

“Together with Jonah Lomu at Counties Manukau they formed one of the most formidable partnerships we’ve seen, and his performances for the Blues helped put Super Rugby on the map.”

“Just an incredible, incredible person and tragic to lose”, says Duane Mann, former rugby league player and coach. 

“Humility, such a community man, extraordinary through his football career, both in rugby and rugby league. He did many things other people simply can’t do, so he was a person who paved the way.”