A FIFTH rugby league players for 2015 has died from injuries sustained on the field.
The South African Rugby League has issued a media release confirming the death of Zacharias de Lange of Silverbacks from an undisclosed injury suffered in a match against Predators at Soshonguwe on September 18.
De Lange died three days later in hospital. An investigation is still underway into his injury and the tackle that caused it.
The other fatalities this year are Danny Jones in England, James Ackerman,and Zane Purcell in Australia and Eddie Hei Hei in New Zealand.
Additionally, 15-year-old Torran Thomas of West Coast Pirates died after a training session in January.
There are calls for them to be honoured at Sunday’s NRL grand final between Brisbane and North Queensland but it is not known if there are any plans to do so.
The full SARL media release reads: “On the evening of 18 September 2015 the Silver Backs team played an organised league game against the Predators at Soshonguwe.
At approximately 20:45 a Silver Backs player Zacharias de Lange were (sic) involved in a tackle situation which resulted in an injury.
“SPORTS MED medics were present at the time of the incident and took immediate control of the injured Zacharias de Lange whereafter De Lange was transported via ambulance to Steve Biko Hospital.
“SARL was informed of the unexpected passing away of Zacharias de Lange on Monday 21 September 2015 while De Lange was still admitted to The Steve Biko Hospital.
“We as SARL deeply regret this loss of life and recognise the tremendous loss suffered by the family, friends and team players of Zacharias de Lange.
“How SARL responded. An in depth investigation has been lodged into the cause of De Lange’s injury and his subsequent death following the injury.
SARL undertakes to finalise its’ investigation as swiftly as possible. Preliminary reports in SARL’s possession indicates that all medics and players involved acted immediately without delay in order to assist the injured De Lange to the best of their abilities and available means.”
