Former Malawi international and Kaizer Chiefs defender Jack Chamangwana passed away at the age of 61 after losing a battle with illness in his native homeland.

According to a report by the BBC, the former footballer had been suffering from high blood pressure and was admitted to hospital last week.

With 133 appearances, he was Malawi’s second most-capped player.

Before passing away, Chamangwana worked as technical director for Malawian Super League side Be Forward Wanderers.

Kaizer Chiefs’ legend

The Malawian, affectionately known as ‘Black Stone’, played for the Soweto giants from 1986 until 1988 and later took over as coach of the team.

Kaizer Chiefs’ chairman Kaizer Motaung issued a statement offering his condolences to Chamangwana.

‘I have received the devastating news of Jack Chamangwana’s passing,’ Motaung said. ‘I’m still reeling from the shock of hearing this sad news.

‘Black Stone made his mark in the gold and black colours of Amakhosi. We achieved many accolades during his stint with us. Who will forget Championship winning year 1989? Black Stone was there as our coach.

‘In March last year we invited him to the Soweto Derby. I relived the glory days with him while we enjoyed lunch together. Little did I know his visit was his goodbye. So sad. During his visit, he shared his knowledge of football and told me he watched every Kaizer Chiefs match on DStv. I’m glad to have shared in his life and times. What a great gentleman!’

Aside from coaching the Soweto side, Chamangwana also enjoyed stints with the Malawi national team, most recently as an assistant tactician.