2nd from left top row. Amran standing tall during his playing days. Photo by Clarence Lam

The Singapore Rugby Union and the Singapore Rugby Community mourned the loss of former National Captain Amran Mohammad on Tuesday 17th January 2017.

Amran as he was affectionately known was a tough uncompromising front rower who was capped over 30 times for Singapore from 1985 to 1995 in both 7s and 15s and led his country on several occasions at the international stage.

He started his playing career with the Police Rugby Club and his association with the club and the sport never ceased. He became the recognizable figure for the club both here and internationally. He would always do anything to support the game, and even after formally retiring, was occasionally seen putting the boots on to support his club or the Singapore Malays side.

He was known to many as an inspirational leader who led by example on and off the field. More than just a team-mate, he was a coach, a mentor, a friend and a brother to many of those in the community.

Many teammates and opponents alike will remember fondly his rallying calls of “api” or “semangat” when his team needed a lift, with him leading the charge.

Amran progressed to coaching club and schools and his passion for the game never dimmed, mentoring numerous players in the community.

Tough, no nonsense on the field, Amran was a true gentleman off the field and he was always ready with a toothy grin and more than a joke or two on the sidelines of any club or school game. His two sons, Suhaimi and Farhan, followed their father’s passion into the sport and have also represented Singapore on the international stage.

As a tribute to a true pillar of our game gone too soon, all games this weekend in the Singapore Rugby Union National League will observe a minute of silence.

Amran will be sorely missed by his rugby family, and the SRU sends their deepest condolences to Suhami, Farhan, their mother and sister at this time. The game in heaven has truly gained another stellar front rower.