A true Springbok hero, a giant and a warrior - tributes pour in for Van der Westhuizen

Joost van der Westhuizen was branded a "true Springbok hero" as South Africa Rugby led the tributes to their former captain, who died aged 45 on Monday.

The former scrum-half was admitted to hospital at the weekend and lost his battle with motor neuron disease, which he was diagnosed with in 2011.

Van der Westhuizen was part of the iconic 1995 Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok side, and scored 38 Test tries in 89 appearances for his country.

Following the sad news of his death, social media was awash with tributes.

February 6, 2017

Our thoughts and condolences go out to @9Joost family, friends and the millions of fans that adored him. https://t.co/sG4G5zTiJs pic.twitter.com/ppPqFdDeiy

— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) February 6, 2017

South Africa is poorer without Joost van der Westhiuzen, a giant & warrior of SA rugby. I send my sincere condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/f8ko2SPWpI

— RSA Min of Sport (@MbalulaFikile) February 6, 2017

RIP @9Joost

February 6, 2017

Was a pleasure sharing a dressing room with you,A warrior in every sense of the word,legend of the game,God Bless your fam,rus sag ou grote pic.twitter.com/ajM4MrVAf5

— Breyton Paulse (@BreytonPaulse) February 6, 2017

The world of

February 6, 2017

Condolences to the friends and family of one of the greats of our game, Joost van der Westhuizen.

February 6, 2017

Very sad to hear of the passing of one of our greats.

February 6, 2017

You will be missed!

@J9_FoundationUK Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Joost. A rugby legend and huge supporter in the fight against #MND.

— MND Association (@mndassoc) February 6, 2017