All Blacks star Sean Wainui, 25, dies in horror car crash – leaving behind a heartbroken wife and two-year-old son
The rugby union world is in mourning following the tragic death of Maori All Blacks star Sean Wainui.
The speedy centre, 25, died in a single vehicle crash near Tauranga in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region on Monday morning,
He leaves behind a devastated wife Paige and two-year-old-son.
The former under-20s New Zealand representative played 51 Super Rugby games for the Crusaders and current club the Chiefs.
Super Rugby star Sean Wainui died in a crash in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region
He also represented the Maori All Blacks on 10 occasions.
His Super Rugby club led the outpouring of tributes as Wainui was remembered as a passionate, hard-working, proud Māori and exceptional player.
‘He epitomised everything you could possibly ask for in a player,’ Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan said.
‘He was an influential member in the teams he has been a part of, and his presence will be missed. Our sincere condolences to Paige, Kawariki and Arahia and his wider whānau at this difficult time. We are offering them our full support along with our players and staff.’
An All Blacks statement read: ‘We are heartbroken right now. Sean, you were an inspiration and will never be forgotten. We extend all of our strength and aroha to your friends and whānau.
Dual Kiwi international Sonny Bill Williams also expressed his shock.
‘My thoughts are with Sean Wainuis’ family,’ he wrote on Twitter.
‘Especially his wife & young child. Although I didn’t play alongside him, I could always feel his mana coming up against him as his opposition.’
Police inquiries into the fatal crash are continuing.
More to come
Sean and his wife Paige (pictured together) recently celebrated their one year wedding anniversary
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