All Black winger Joeli Vidiri dies aged 48 just hours after Va'aiga Tuigamala

New Zealand is in mourning again after the passing of another one of its greats, Joeli Vidiri, at the age of just 48.

The powerful winger received international caps for both Fiji and then New Zealand, but really made his name with the Blues, playing a key role in their early Super Rugby successes in 1996 and 1997.

The news comes less than 24 hours after the passing of Va'aiga Tuigamala - affectionately known as 'Inga the Winger' - whose passing was announced yesterday at the age of 52.

Vidiri was one half of the most lethal wing duo in rugby, partnering up with Jonah Lomu for both Counties Manukau and the Blues to devastating effect.

Similar to Lomu, Vidiri possessed a speed and power that made him difficult to stop, often leaving defenders trailing in his wake.

The pair became great friends and battled similar kidney diseases later in their lives, with Vidiri having a transplant in 2016.

He scored a stunning 43 tries in 62 games for the Blues and won Sevens golf for New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games in 1998, the same year as his two All Blacks caps.

“With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Joeli Vidiri, aged 48,” the Blues have posted to social media.

The All Blacks posted: "An incredibly sad day continues. Another one of our brothers taken. You’d struggle to meet a nicer guy than Joeli Vidiri, not to mention his remarkable skills on the field.

"Rest in Love, All Black #973".