EAST LONDON - The final whistle came all too soon for Luqobo "Bibo" Makwedini.
The young rugby star will be remembered at a memorial service in the Eastern Cape on Thursday.
At 1.76 metres and 119kg, Bibo was considered a top future prospect for the Springbok forward pack.
The former U-18 tighthead prop had just embarked on a 3-year contract with the Beziers in France.
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He was already being considered for the senior team but died before he could make kick-off.
The 20-year-old succumbed to what is believed to be heatstroke after a training session in France.
Family, friends and teammates are expected to gather in Qumrha for a final scrum.
The family says he will be buried on Saturday in his hometown.