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Former All Black Mika passes away, aged just 45
By Ben Spratt
Dylan Mika, a member of New Zealand's 1999 World Cup squad, has died suddenly at the age of 45.
Flanker Mika made seven Test appearances for the All Blacks in 1999, having earlier appeared twice for Samoa and played domestic rugby in New Zealand and Japan.
"It is with great sadness that the family of Dylan announce that he passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Auckland," a statement released by his family said.
"Dylan was a very much loved husband to Tracy, father to their daughter Marley, and dearly loved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend.
"He was a hugely talented athlete, well respected in the Samoan community and abroad but, just as importantly, to his friends and family a warm wonderful caring man. Gone far too soon at the age of just 45."
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew said: "Dylan is one of the rare talents that represented both Samoa and New Zealand at a time when rugby had not long turned professional.
"He continued to have an active involvement in rugby both in Auckland and Samoa and, in particular, in his loyalty to the New Zealand Barbarians. Our thoughts are with Dylan's family and friends."
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Let’s make them both Capt. I think we'd get the best of both of them and it would help alleviate some of the pressures of the role. They'd have to confer over on field decisions which should lead to “ learnings “ for both. They are our two best consistent performers.
Go to commentsForget what was said or how many players said it. TONY BROWN IS THE NEW ATTACK COACH. That’s the only story worth freaking out over. The springboks are going to grow their game an awful lot over the next cycle and it’s not just the 19 disgustingly arrogant Irish players who refused to shake Ebens hand and said “see you in the final if you can cheat your way past France” who will find that out first hand.
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