Willie Los'e died in South Africa where he was due to commentate on the Rugby World Cup Sevens tournament.

He played for the New Zealand under-21 side and later captained Tonga at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, playing in all three pool games.

In a statement, his family said he was a proud West Aucklander.

Playing as a lock and loose forward, Willie Los'e represented Auckland, North Harbour, and Marlborough in the old National Provincial Championship from 1990 to 2001, while having a stint in Japan with Yamaha Jubilo.

After his playing career, Los'e was a host with Radio Sport and ZB, and a rugby commentator for Gold Sport and Sky TV.

His family said captaining Tonga had been a career highlight.

[Source: NZ Herald]