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Doctor and former Springbok dies from COVID-19 complications

Medical doctor and former Springbok wing Corra Dirksen has passed away from COVID-19 complications, reports News24. He was 82. Dirksen was still practicing his profession in Krugersdorp until he contracted the coronavirus about two weeks ago.

The report says Dirksen played 10 Tests for the Springboks between 1963 and 1968, scoring three tries. The burly winger, who stood 1.84m and 84kg, also played 35 times for Northern Transvaal (now called Blue Bulls).

Blue Bulls president Willem Strauss is quoted in the report as saying that the union was saddened to hear of Dirksen's passing. "He was obviously one of our most celebrated Blue Bulls and comes from a well-known family, with his brother Hansie having also played provincial rugby (for Free State)," Strauss said.

 

Dr Billy van der Merwe, MD of Netcare’s primary care division, of which Medicross is a subsidiary, has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of Dirksen. “We at Medicross mourn the loss of a healthcare professional and human being of great stature.

“Dr Corra” was highly respected, and much loved by his colleagues, patients as well as by the staff and management of Medicross Krugersdorp where he practised for 23 years,” said van der Merwe.

“Dr Corra, who had a particular interest in obstetrics, not only contributed at a clinical level to Medicross Krugersdorp but also played an active role in assisting with suggestions to improve processes to the benefit of patients and the communities served by Medicross Krugersdorp.

“Even though he was 82 years old at the time of his passing, Dr Corra remained energetic and active while continuing to care for the many patients who relied on his clinical knowledge and sound medical advice. His compassion and commitment to patient care were highly valued within the practice and community that he served,” added van der Merwe.

[link url="https://www.news24.com/sport/rugby/springboks/former-springbok-wing-dies-from-covid-19-complications-20200710"]Full News24 report[/link]

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