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.”

Nicknamed "Inga the Winger", Tuigamala made his All Blacks debut in 1989 and was capped 19 times by the national team, before switching to rugby league and representing Samoa at the 1995 World Cup.

In a statement, his former club said the "Wigan Warriors are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news that former player Va'aiga (Inga) Tuigamala has passed away."

"Wigan Warriors send their deepest condolences to the family and friends at this awful time."

The club did not give a cause for his death.