TRIBUTES have been paid to a 31-year-old rugby player who collapsed and died during a match.

Alex Evans was playing for Cwmllynfell RFC when he fell ill on Saturday.

The flanker was treated by first responders and the ambulance service but died at the scene.

The match against Crynant was being played in memory of a club stalwart who died earlier this year.

In a social media post, club captain Chris Balfe paid tribute to the player and offered condolences to his family.

He said: "To play as part of a team is more than a sport, it's to be part of a family.

"When you get the honour to pull on your club Jersey with your mates it's something that money can't buy. We went out today as a team of mates and we came off the field loosing a brother.

"We lost one of the boys who epitomised what Cwm was about. A fiercely loyal person who give it all on the field and in life.

"To me Alex sums up what playing rugby is about, a man who played for the badge and his mates week in week out."

 

 

He added: "I would like to extend my heartfelt and deepest condolences to the family of Alex.

"I think If we could all live our lives with the joy and positivity that Alex lived his, this world would be much happier and better place.

"Rest in peace brother."

A statement from South Wales Police said officers were called to Cwmllynfell Rugby Football Club at around 3.30pm on Saturday (August 21), following reports of a 31-year-old man in cardiac arrest.

"Officers responded to the incident along with the Welsh Ambulance Service," a spokeswoman said.

"There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances. Next of kin have been informed and HM Coroner has been advised." 

Geraint John, Welsh Rugby Union community director, said: "So, so sad. Deepest sympathy and thoughts are with everyone at Cwmllynfell RFC, his family and friends. Sincere condolences from myself and everyone at WRU Community and Welsh Rugby Union."

A tweet from Scarlets Rugby said: "Deepest condolences from everyone at the Scarlets."

World Rugby wrote: “Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and teammates and to everyone associated with Cwmllynfell RFC.”

The club has set up a fundraising page for Mr Evans’s family: https://gofund.me/98fa15ba