President Jacob Zuma has asked the nation to keep South African rugby legend and former Springbok captain, Joost van der Westhuizen, in their thoughts and prayers.

Van der Westhuizen was admitted to ICU at hospital, on Saturday morning, after being described as critical.

Mr Van der Westhuizen is one of the best rugby players that the country has ever produced.

We are saddened by his ill health. We urge the nation to keep him and his family in their thoughts and prayers as he continues to fight this challenging illness,” said President Zuma.

The rugby star has been battling motor neuron disease since 2011, with his condition deteriorating in recent months.

He played 89 Tests for his country and once held the all-time try scoring record which has since been surpassed by Bryan Habana.

Source: South African Government News Agency