The twin brother of a rugby player who died after suffering serious injuries as he scored a try wore his sibling’s shirt number to pay a special tribute.
Jack Jeffery, 27, died after being hurt while crossing the whitewash for Evesham Rugby Club on 12 February.
His brother Charles wore Jack’s number 11 jersey while playing for London Welsh Druids on Saturday.
He scored a try and two conversions as Welsh beat Hammersmith and Fulham seconds 19-12.
Club chairman Dave Summerfield said the players were reeling as “it was such a terrible shock”.
He said the accident had “affected the players greatly”, adding: “As a club, we have been overwhelmed by the messages of support and goodwill from the rugby community.
“Jack was calm, respected and highly thought of. Our club and community have lost such a bright light.”
A statement on the club’s website said Mr Jeffery, who lived in London, was “adding another try to his phenomenal record” and was injured in an accident on the pitch as he scored.
“He would often return from London for training and was always at the heart of club activities,” it added.
Glenn Jeffery posted on Facebook: “It is with great sadness that I need to let you know we lost our beloved son Jack yesterday.”
Wasps star Stooke also posted on Sunday: “Thoughts are with the family of jack Jeffery and everyone @EveshamRFC this morning. An old school colleague and team mate of mine.”
He was followed by Leicester Tigers fly-half Burns, who said: “So sad to hear about the passing of Jack Jeffery. A young rugby player who sadly lost his life whilst playing the sport we all love. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone @EveshamRFC #RIP.”
And the North Midlands RFU wrote: “It is with immeasurable sadness that we have to report the tragic loss of North Midlands player Jack Jeffery from Evesham Rugby Club yesterday 12th February 2022. The whole of North Mids sends their sincere condolences to all those who knew Jack and affected by this tragic loss.”
Nigel Huddleson, Conservative MP for Mid Worcestershire, tweeted: “My deepest sympathies go to his family, friends and teammates. The outpouring of messages shows how incredibly popular he was.”