A 17-year-old amateur rugby player, Cléa Menier, has died after suffering an on-field injury during an under-18s match in France.

Menier, who played in the back row for Union du Bassin Marmandais, died after an accident during her club’s match against Agen Agglo Rugby on Saturday.

She received medical attention on the pitch before being taken to Pellegrin Hospital in Bordeaux, where she later died from her injuries.

The nature of the injury has not been disclosed by either her club or the French Rugby Federation (FFR).

In a statement on Thursday, Union du Bassin Marmandais expressed profound sadness over her death and paid tribute to the emergency services who attended to her.

“It is with immense sadness and indescribable pain that Union du Bassin Marmandais learned of the death of Clea,” the club said.

The club also extended its condolences to Menier’s family and friends, as well as her teammates, coaches and everyone who shared her passion for rugby.

Describing the incident as a terrible ordeal, the club said its members would support one another through the tragedy.

The French Rugby Federation also expressed its condolences, saying Menier’s death had deeply affected the entire rugby community.

The federation extended its support to her family and loved ones, teammates, coaches and members of Union du Bassin Marmandais.

The FFR added that every effort would be made to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Further details about the incident and the nature of Menier’s injuries have not been made public. (The PUNCH, excluding headline)