Rugby player Alex Evans, 31, collapses and dies on pitch during memorial game

A Welsh rugby player collapsed and died during a memorial game.

Father-of-one, Alex Evans was reportedly playing for Cwmllynfell at their home ground, Parc y Bryn in Neath Port Talbot on Saturday afternoon. They were playing against Crynant in the memory of a club stalwart who died earlier this year.

Emergency services responded to reports of a man in cardiac arrest where attempts were made to revive him but he later died at the scene.

On Twitter, Cwmllynfell RFC said of the 31-year-old: “We have lost a brother on the field and it is hurting so much.”

Club secretary Gareth Evans said they were “numb and raw at losing a brother”.

Paying tribute to the popular player, he said: “Alex always had a cheeky smile and would do anything for anyone. He wore his heart on his sleeve. He had been with us since the club restarted four years ago.”

Messages of sympathy have poured in from numerous clubs, as well as by the Welsh Rugby Union and World Rugby on social media.

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.”

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

South Wales Police said they 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.

A spokeswoman said: “Officers responded to the incident along with the Welsh Ambulance Service.