Rotherham Titans tribute after former prop Ian Williams shock death

Williams, who was 27, collapsed and died in training with his current club Doncaster Knights this morning.

He played with Titans last season, making eight appearances, his final one being the last game of the campaign at London Irish. He then moved to Doncaster.

  Knights said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that Doncaster RFC announces the passing of prop forward Ian Williams.

"Ian collapsed at training at Castle Park this morning and, despite the best efforts of the emergency response team, could not be resuscitated.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Ian’s mother Pippa, father Phillip and and sister Helen and are working with a counselling team in the best interest of Ian’s teammates."

He was a replacement in the Knights' game last weekend at home to Hartpury.

Titans have paid tribute to the 6ft 4ins front rower.

"Ian was a popular member of the squad here at Rotherham and although he was only here for a year before moving on, he made a big impression among everyone," he club said. "It is a real tragedy and a shock and we send our condolances to his family and friends and to everyone at Castle Park."