A young rugby player who was tipped for stardom has died in hospital after an incident during a match.

Jack Jeffery was hurt while scoring a try for his team, Evesham RFC, in their tie against Berkswell and Balsall on Saturday.

He was taken to hospital after being injured on the pitch but medics couldn’t save him.

His club today paid tribute to their ‘committed and loyal’ player and called him ‘too good for even the all blacks’.

A statement said: ‘It is with immeasurable sadness that we have to report the tragic loss of our beloved Jack Jeffery following our Seniors League fixture at Berkswell and Balsall yesterday, February 12.

‘Jack was adding another try to his phenomenal record and during the act and subsequent challenge of scoring he was injured.

‘He was taken to Walgrave Hospital where he tragically lost his fight. A more committed, loyal “Clubman” is hard to find. He would often return from London for training and was always at the heart of club activities.

‘He served his club, his teammates and the county with distinction and provided much satisfaction to the club supporters in knowing exactly where the whitewash was.’

The club added that it had been ‘overwhelmed’ by the messages of support received from across the world of rugby.

‘Jack was calm, respected and highly thought of,’ a club spokesperson said. ‘Our club and community have lost such a bright light.

‘On behalf of Evesham Rugby, I thank everyone whom supported Jack in his moment of need yesterday and for all the messages of support I have received from other clubs and the North Mids Union.

‘As a mark of respect our club is closed today. We fly at half-mast. Please take a moment today in your prayers and take your moment of silence for Jack, his family, loved ones and friends.’

Worcester Warriors, the Rugby Football Union and the North Midlands RFU all paid their respects as the news broke on Sunday.

Elliot Stooke, a player for London Wasps, posted on Twitter: ‘Thoughts are with the family of jack Jeffery and everyone @EveshamRFC this morning. An old school colleague and team mate of mine.’

Leicester Tigers fly-half Freddie Burns added: ‘So sad to hear about the passing of Jack Jeffery. A young rugby player who sadly lost his life whilst playing the sport we all love. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone @EveshamRFC #RIP.’

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