Tributes paid to rugby player who died during match
Wisbech were at home against Diss when Arturas Rudys collapsed
At a glance
Tributes were paid to Arturas Rudys, 27, who collapsed during a rugby match on Saturday
Wisbech Rugby Club described him as a "hugely valued and respected" member of the team
The chairman of the Eastern Counties Rugby Union said Mr Rudys was involved in what appeared to be a "chest-to-chest incident"
Flowers were left close to the scene
- Published
A rugby club has paid tribute to one of its players who collapsed and died during a match.
Arturas Rudys, 27, who played for Wisbech Rugby Club in Cambridgeshire, died on Saturday during a home match against Diss.
The East of England Ambulance Service said a player suffered a cardiac arrest, and despite resuscitation attempts, he could not be saved.
Mr Rudys' club described him as a "hugely valued and respected" member of the team.
Two ambulances, the air ambulance and the fire service were called
Wisbech Rugby Club secretary David Dobson said: "As a club we are in touch with Arturas' family to offer our heartfelt sympathies and support.
"We know this is a very difficult time for the player's family, friends, teammates, and the wider club community.
"Wisbech RFC thanks everyone who helped Arturas in his immediate moments of need yesterday including club first aiders, teammates and Diss RFC."
The match between Wisbech and Diss in the Counties 1 - Eastern Counties league was abandoned.
'Regrettable and unpredictable'
Roger Pierson, chairman of the Eastern Counties Rugby Union, external said: "As far as we understand, it was just a rugby incident – a chest-to-chest collision. There was no head-to-head contact.
"Two players were involved, two players went down, but just one got up.
"As far as I can see it's something that's regrettable and unpredictable."
Mr Pierson said the RFU Injured Players Foundation, external had been in touch with both clubs to offer "whatever support they can".
Flowers were left by a tree at Wisbech Rugby Club in Chapel Road.
Tributes were also paid online from other rugby clubs across England.
Mr Rudys was originally from Lithuania and a fundraising page has been set up to financially support his family.
As a mark of respect, Wisbech cancelled upcoming rugby activities in the coming days.
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