Former Australia lock Dan Vickerman died aged 37 yesterday, former club Waratahs announced.

The former Brumbies and Waratahs player, who made 63 appearances for Australia, died at his family home in Sydney and is survived by wife Sarah and two sons.

The South Africa-born forward, who spent a season in the Premiership with Northampton, retired from the game in 2012, with his last international appearance coming in the semi-final of the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

After retirement he worked for the Rugby Union Players’ Association, with chief executive Ross Xenos saying: “On behalf of all players, we extend our deepest sympathies to Dan’s young family at this difficult time. We are truly shocked and united in our despair.

“Dan was universally respected by his peers and the rugby community during and beyond his playing days. Since retiring, he was very generous in giving back to the game through coaching and voluntary roles supporting players’ off-field development.”

England coach Eddie Jones also paid tribute to a “wonderfully committed team player.”

Jones, who coached Australia and Brumbies in his homeland, said: “He will be sorely missed by the rugby community.”