Former Springbok legend Joost van der Westhuizen, currently battling motor neuron disease, was one of six recipients honoured with the Steve Tshwete Lifetime Achievement Award at last Sunday’s SA Sports Awards in Sandton.

Staggeringly however, the 89-Test former scrumhalf wasn’t sent an invitation by the organisers.

According to The Star newspaper, Petrus Molemela (life president of Bloemfontein Celtic soccer club) was the only winner present to receive his award.

The other four winners – the late Sewsunker “Papwa” Sewgolum (golf), sports administrator Sam Ramsamy, Petrus “White Hair” Molemela (football) and Sally Little (golf) – all had representatives collect their awards on their behalf.

Van der Westhuizen slammed the organisers on Twitter on Monday, writing: Heard this morning about the lifetime award, thank you! Would’ve been nice to get a invite to receive it…

However, the oversight appears to have been cleared up, with Joost tweeting on Wednesday: Thank you Minister Fikile Mbalula and Ministry of Sport for the personal apology. Respect!!!

Via Jacaranda Sport