Kyuden Voltex's Saimoni Vunilagi, 26, dies in Fukuoka due to heatstroke

Kyushu Electric Power Kyuden Voltex lock Saimoni Vunilagi, a summer signing from Suntory Sungoliath, has tragically passed away at the age of 26 due to suspected heatstroke.

Fiji-born Vunilagi, who joined Suntory after graduating from Daito Bunka University, showed symptoms of heatstroke after training with his new division two club Kyuden Voltex on Monday and was immediately transported to a hospital in Fukuoka City.

© Suntory Sugoliath

Despite the best efforts of the medial staff, he passed away on Friday the club announced today.

A club statement said: “The players, staff, and all team associates are devastated by this sudden news.

 “Although Saimoni had only recently joined Kyushu KV, his generous spirit and powerful style of play had raised high hopes for his contributions in the upcoming season. “We humbly pray for the repose of his soul and extend our heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family. At this time of profound grief, we respectfully ask the family be granted space and privacy.”

© Suntory Sugoliath

A Japan Rugby League One spokesperson said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Saimoni Vunilagi a player belonging to Kyushu Electric Power's Kyuden Voltex. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all those involved.”

A minute's silence was observed before the Japan v Australia Test match in Osaka. Vunilagi's former Suntory teammates Kanji Shimokawa and Naoto Saito both started for the hosts.

RugbyJP.com sends its deepest condolences to Saimoni Vunilagi’s family, friends and teammates.