The accident happened on Monday morning
Former Maori All Blacks and New Zealand Super Rugby star Sean Wainui has died in a car crash, aged just 25
The accident happened on Monday morning in Omanawa, near the city of Tauranga, in the early hours of the morning. Wainui was confirmed as the only person to have been in the car that crashed into a tree.
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. 🖤
Kia au tō moe. pic.twitter.com/R0o9fqgW6R
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) October 18, 2021
He made 44 appearances for the Chiefs this year and even went on to debut for the Bay of Plenty, also picking up ten international caps. In June, he scored five tries against the NSW Waratahs – setting the record for the most tries by a player in a single Super Rugby match.
As yet it is unclear what caused the crash but the world of rugby has united in their shock and sadness. New Zealand Rugby chief executive, Mark Robinson, called it “a dark day for rugby“.
The Bay’s former head coach Clayton McMillan said: “He epitomised everything you could possibly ask for in a player. He will be remembered for being a passionate, hard-working, proud Maori who was an exceptional player but more importantly father and husband.”
He is survived by his wife, Paige, a two-year-old son Kawariki, 2, and his step-daughter, Arahia.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
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