Tygerberg Cricket Club are in mourning after the death of player Kyle Barnes.
Barnes reportedly sustained severe neck and head trauma while playing for Goodwood Rugby Club against Strand Rugby Club recently.
He later underwent emergency surgery to relieve swelling on the brain, but tragically did not recover.
“It is with overwhelming sadness and deep regret that we, the Tygerberg Cricket Club family, have to inform our members, spectators and everyone associated with the club of the unfortunate and tragic passing of one of our club members, Kyle Barnes,” read a statement from Tygerberg Cricket Club.
“We would like to extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Kyle’s family and friends during this most difficult time. We will always remember his tenacity and fighting spirit.”
The 31-year-old Barnes was a father of two.
“This is a very unfortunate incident. The union feels with the family. We are trying to assist the family and we have made contact with them and we hope it all works out well,” said Western Province Rugby Football Union president Thelo Wakefield prior to Barnes’ passing.
“It will be his children’s eighth birthday. We will go out and show our support to the children. I have been speaking to the players of the Currie Cup and asked them to come out and try and brighten the children’s day.
“There is nothing further to say. Everything is now in the hands of the hospital and their personnel. We are trying to respect the family’s wishes as they share their last moments with Kyle.”