Rugby player Danny Jones dies after collapsing during match

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Danny Jones died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest during a match Credit: Keighley Cougars

Welsh international rugby league player Danny Jones has died today after collapsing during a match.

Jones, 29, is believed to have suffered a suspected cardiac arrest after being replaced early in today's League 1 match between his team the Keighley Cougars and London Skolars.

The half-back, who had recently become a father to five-month-old twins, was taken to London's Royal Free Hospital by helicopter after coming off the pitch four minutes into today's game. He died in hospital after attempts to resuscitate him failed.

Jones' club paid tribute to the "much loved and highly respected" player this evening as they posted the news of his death on Twitter:

The Rugby Football League also paid tribute to the young rugby star.

The RFL's chief operating officer, Ralph Rimmer, said: "It is always devastating when someone so young dies in these circumstances.

"Danny was a popular and talented rugby league player, having played at the highest level with the Wales national team and over 12 seasons for Keighley Cougars and Halifax.

"The rugby league community will mourn his loss and I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Danny's family and friends at this incredibly sad time."