Rugby league player found dead in hotel hours after making debut

A rugby league player has been found dead in his hotel room in France just hours after making his debut.

Archie Bruce, 20, made his debut for Championship side Batley Bulldogs from the bench last night against Toulouse.

His body was discovered early this morning.

Club chairman Kevin Nicholas said in a statement: ‘Batley Bulldogs are greatly saddened to announce the passing of their player Archie Bruce who was found in his hotel bedroom early this morning having made his debut against Toulouse the previous evening.

‘Archie’s immediate family have been informed.

‘Batley Bulldogs, the RFL and the RFL Benevolent Fund will be supporting the family while enquiries by the French authorities continue, with the club squad delaying their return to the UK.

‘The Bruce family have requested privacy during this most difficult of times.’

Bruce had joined the Bulldogs from amateur club Dewsbury Moor and made his debut off the replacements bench in the 46-0 defeat to Toulouse.

Dewsbury Moor tweeted: ‘We are devastated to announce the passing of our player Archie Bruce (20).

‘Archie made his debut for Batley yesterday in Toulouse and was found in his hotel bedroom early this morning. We extend our deepest condolences to Archie’s family, team mates and friends. RIP.’

Why do your houseplants keep dying?

Tributes and condolences have flooded in on socal media from players and fans.

St Helens prop Alex Walmsley tweeted: ‘Incredibly sad news to wake up to, my condolences go out to his family, friends and teammates at both Batley and Dewsbury Moor. RIP Archie.’

Former Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain star Keith Senior tweeted: ‘Never nice to hear news like this especially at such a young age. Condolences to all his family and friends.’