SPRINGBOK legend Joost van der Westhuizen is still in a critical condition after being admitted to hospital earlier today. The former scrum-half, who won the World Cup in 1995, has been battling motor neurone disease since 2011.

The 45-year-old represented his country 89 times, scoring 38 tries before being inducted into rugby’s Hall of Fame in 2007.

A message on the player’s J9 Foundation Facebook page read:

Several people on Twitter have also expressed their support for Joost:

https://t.co/8unCm4PD8P thinking of Joost and all those fighting this awful disease. Love & hope against #MND

— Jo Watts (@TeamWattsVsMND) February 4, 2017

https://twitter.com/MbalulaFikile/status/827837823378132996

One of the true greats of the game, and the work he done since being diagnosed to raise awareness is awesome #rugby https://t.co/4pCP2EsA3s

— Wesley (@wesmanson) February 4, 2017

Thoughts are with Joost Van Der Westhuizen. A man whose willpower could move mountains. #hero

— #Symbelmynë (@pentimento_117) January 25, 2017

Sending #Love and #Light to #Joost and his family & friends. Hang in there #Legend – your race isn't over.

— vanessa tancrel (@VanessaTancrel) February 4, 2017

Our thoughts & prayers are with @9Joost vd Westhuizen & his family. #Joost was admitted to hospital earlier today in a critical condition. pic.twitter.com/Tw1lQ4IrXS

— IG: blitzbokke7s (@BlitzBokke) February 4, 2017