Tongan  former All Black flanker and number 8 Sione Lauaki has died at the age of 35, Kaniva News has been told.
It is understood Lauaki was suffering from renal failure and cardiovascular problems in 2012.
Lauaki made his debut for the Chiefs in 2004 before earning an All Black call-up in 2005. He played 70 Super Rugby matches and was capped 17 times for New Zealand.
Waikato Rugby acknowledged his death on Twitter, “Our thoughts are with his family”.
Sad news this morning to hear ex Waikato player Sione Lauaki’s passing. Our thoughts are with his family. https://t.co/Pl3QPD8vOX
— Waikato Rugby (@WaikatoRugby) February 11, 2017
More to come……..
