Super Rugby player dies at just 25
New Zealand rugby player Connor Garden-Bachop has died aged 25.
Police were called to the scene of a sudden death in Fendalton, Christchurch just before 6pm on Monday, according to the NZ Herald.
“The death is not being treated as suspicious and will be referred to the Coroner,” police said.
Garden-Bachop, son of former All Black Stephen Bachop, was part of the Highlanders' Super Rugby squad this season, and they have also confirmed his death in a statement shared on Facebook.
“On behalf of the entire rugby community, the Highlanders, Wellington Rugby, New Zealand Rugby, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association would like to extend our deepest thoughts and love to the Garden-Bachop family,” the statement read.
“Connor passed away on Monday following a medical event, and rugby’s collective focus at this time is on supporting his family.
"All of rugby walks alongside the Garden-Bachop family at this time and we are collectively united in our grief," the statement continued.
“Connor was a fantastic young player, an exciting New Zealand age-grade representative and a proud Māori All Black. Wherever he played, he was a committed and popular teammate with infectious energy and someone who could light up the room.
“Most importantly, he was a loving father to his twin girls, a brother, a son and immeasurably loved by all those who knew him.
“NZR, the New Zealand Māori Rugby Board, the Highlanders, Wellington Rugby and the Players Association are providing support and we ask that the privacy of the Garden-Bachop family is respected.”
Garden-Bachop, an outside back, made his Highlanders debut in 2021. After five seasons with the team, the Highlanders announced on Facebook last week that he would not return to the team next season.
The rugby player is survived by his twin daughters.
Images: Instagram