Fijian rugby player dies after suffering suspected heatstroke in Japan

Saimoni Vunilagi, a 26-year-old Fijian rugby player, passed away after being diagnosed with suspected heatstroke during training with his team Kyushu Electric Power Kyuden Voltex in southern Japan. The back rower was hospitalized on Monday following symptoms of severe heatstroke. Despite recently joining the team, Vunilagi had garnered significant attention due to his strong playing style and positive demeanor.

The club expressed deep sorrow over his loss and offered condolences to his family. Meanwhile, Japan's national rugby team suffered a narrow defeat against Australia in Osaka on Saturday, forced to take water breaks during both halves due to the extreme heatwave that had swept across the country, with temperatures soaring above 40°C.