Irish rugby squad to return home following death

Ireland's Under-19 rugby squad is to fly home home following the tragic death on Saturday of wing-forward John McCall.

The decision was made following a meeting between team manager Michael Cunningham, team coach Pat Murray and squad members.

The Royal School Armagh pupil died following Ireland's opening game of the Under-19 Rugby World Cup in Durban.

The 18-year-old had collapsed on the pitch during the game and was immediately rushed to St Augustine's Hospital in Durban but died soon after.

IRFU Senior Vice President Barry Keogh has flown out to South Africa to join up with the squad following John's death.

The circumstances surrounding the incident that led to the injury were clarified today by IRFU Press Officer, John Redmond.

"Some media reports suggesting that the incident that led to John's removal from the pitch concerned a collapsed scrum are totally erroneous," explained Redmond.

"What actually happened was John took possession from a throw to the back of a line-out. He moved forward, was tackled by the ankles and fell to the ground on his shoulder. He then laid the ball back but when play moved on, John remained on the ground."

A post-mortem will be held on Tuesday in St Augustin's Hospital, Durban.

John's father Ian is also on his way to South Africa to arrange for the return of his son's remains.

Royal School Armagh held a special assembly today with prayers read in his memory. The school is also to make counselling services available to pupils.

(MB)