Rugby player dies after suffering suspected heatstroke in Japan

Fijian rugby player Saimoni Vunilagi, 26, has died after potentially suffering heatstroke during training with his team Kyushu Electric Power Kyuden Voltex, also known as Kyushu KV, in southern Japan, according to the club's statement. The back rower was hospitalized on Monday due to symptoms of severe heatstroke following his training session with the team.

Vunilagi passed away on Friday morning, the club confirmed. Japan has been enduring an intense heatwave recently, with temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in certain areas, which the government has labeled as a "brutally hot day." Despite being a recent addition to Kyushu KV, Vunilagi's kind-hearted nature and powerful playing style had generated high expectations for his performance in the upcoming season.

The club expressed deep sorrow over his loss and extended condolences to his grieving family. Meanwhile, Japan's national team suffered a narrow defeat to Australia on Saturday in Osaka, where both teams were forced to take mandatory water breaks due to the oppressive weather conditions.