Tait tragedy stuns players

Tributes are being paid throughout the world to former Sale Sharks and Scotland Sevens star player David Tait, following his sad death at the age of 25.

Tait was found dead in Hong Kong after apparently falling from an apartment block.

He signed for Sale as a teenager and although he was selected for the England Under-20 squad, he never played, and went on to represent Scotland in the 2009 Dubai Sevens.

He made 40 appearances for the Sharks over five years, but the club let Tait go in 2010 after a series of injuries.

Tait's death is the second in a year to rock Sale Sharks, after Selorm Kuadey died in an apparent suicide last January.

Kuadey was also picked for the England U20 side as a young player, but retired the same year as Tait due to long-term injuries.

Damian Hopley, CEO of the Rugby Players' Association, said the rugby community will be shattered by the passing of such a gifted and popular young man.

"He was respected by everyone he played alongside," Hopley said.

"He wasn't simply a talented rugby player, he was also extremely bright and successful in his life outside of rugby. We will do everything we can to help support David's family and the players who played alongside him. His family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers."

Premiership Rugby expressed their sadness at the news of David's death.

"At this desperately sad time words can hardly do justice to the way everyone involved with Premiership Rugby will feel about David's passing," said Premiership Rugby Chief Executive Mark McCafferty.

"Everyone at Premiership Rugby would like to offer their condolences and support to David's family and friends at this very difficult time."

RFU CEO Ian Ritchie said: “David is well remembered by staff at the RFU as a talented player who represented England whole-heartedly in our age grade sides. He will be greatly missed by the rugby community and our thoughts are with his family and friends at such a sad time."

The Tait family said: “The family is devastated and we would ask you to please respect our privacy."