Former dual-code rugby star Vaiga Tuigamala, who played for Wigan has died, aged 52.
The New Zealander Vaiga Tuigamala played with the Wigan Warriors between 1993 and 1997 having made the switch from rugby union.
He returned to the 15-man code with Wasps and Newcastle, also representing Samoa in both sports.
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Jason Robinson, a teammate of Tuigamala at Wigan, tweeted: "Absolutely heartbroken! I owe so much to this amazing man! Literally helped change my life when he came to @WiganWarriorsRL from NZ.
"Sending all my love and condolences to the family at such a sad time. RIP brother."
Tuigamala begun his rugby union career with amateur side Ponsonby, joining hometown club Auckland in 1988, The Mirror reports.
He made 19 appearances for the All Blacks between 1989 and 1993, including playing at the 1991 World Cup, where New Zealand finished third.
Tuigamala, affectionately known as 'Inga the Winger', switched to rugby league in 1993 and became an immediate fan favourite at Wigan.
He helped them to a slew of trophies in his four years in the north west, including the 1994 World Club challenge victory over Brisbane Broncos Down Under.
In all, he racked up 254 points in 102 appearances for the Warriors, and played twice for Samoa at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup.
Wigan tweeted their condolences, posting: "This morning, Wigan Warriors are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news that former player Va’aiga (Inga) Tuigamala has passed away.
"Wigan Warriors send their deepest condolences to the family and friends at this awful time."
Tuigamala returned to rugby union when the sport became openly professional, signing for Wasps and helping them to the English Premiership title.
He then signed for Newcastle Falcons for a then world-record £1m fee, becoming part of their 1998 championship winning side.
Tuigamala played 23 times for Samoa in the 15-man code, including at the 1999 World Cup.
Following his retirement from rugby, Tuigamala acted as an advisor for his cousin and professional heavyweight boxer David Tua. In the 2008 Queen's Birthday Honours, he was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
