Kruger played in the 1995 World Cup final against New Zealand

Former South Africa flanker Ruben Kruger has died from brain cancer at the age of 39.

Kruger was a key member of the side that won the World Cup on home soil in 1995, scoring a try in the semi-final against France in Durban.

He was named his country's player of the year that season.

"Ruben was the epitome of the Springbok flanker; tough and with an outstanding work ethic," said South African Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins.

"When Ruben was on the field you always knew that the Springboks would not be beaten without a tremendous battle.

"Our prayers have been with him through his battles against illness and it is very sad to hear of his early passing.

"Our thoughts are with his young family and we extend to them our sincerest condolences."

The ex-Cheetahs and Bulls forward, who passed away in a Pretoria hospital late on Wednesday, earned 36 Springbok caps after making his debut in 1993 against Argentina in Buenos Aires.

He played in the 1995 World Cup final against New Zealand - a game immortalised by Nelson Mandela's appearance in a Springbok jersey.

Kruger picked up a serious leg injury against the All Blacks in 1997 and only returned to the Springbok squad for the 1999 World Cup, which would be his swansong because of knee injuries.