The Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU) issued a statement yesterday to express its sadness and sympathy at the untimely death of Bojan Nikolic, a member of the Stompers rugby team.

"News (of Nikolic's death) has come as a shock to the rugby fraternity," the statement, signed by Nicky Gatt, the MRFU Public Relations Officer, said.

Nikolic, 31, died of a heart attack, the MRFU said.

"He has been part of the rugby family for several years, playing for Stompers and also for the national side," the statement added.

"His position was on the wing where he scored several memorable tries with his strong running, helping his team win championships and cup honours over the past four seasons.

"Bojan was more than a friend to us, a gentleman on and off the pitch. He was also involved in youth coaching with Stompers and Alligators RFC."

The MRFU said that all rugby matches will go ahead as scheduled tomorrow but a minute's silence will be observed in memory of Nikolic before the Stompers-Overseas game as well as prior to all other rugby activities.

"On behalf of the local rugby community, the Malta Rugby Football Union conveys its condolences to his family," the statement concluded.

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