Prop Williams dies aged 27

Doncaster Knights were in mourning yesterday after prop Ian Williams died during training.

Williams, 6ft 4in and nearly 20st, collapsed at the club’s Castle Park base. First-responders were unable to revive him.

The 27-year-old featured as a replacement during last Saturday’s 48-38 home win over Hartpury in the Championship. He was an Oxford University graduate and played in the 2013 Varsity match, starting in his side’s 33-15 victory. He also represented Wales Students.

A statement from Doncaster Knights said: “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. Ian joined the club in summer 2017 from Rotherham Titans and quickly became a wellliked member of the Knights squad, making six appearances for the club. We extend our deepest sympathies to Ian’s mother Pippa, father Phillip and sister Helen and are working with a counselling team in the best interest of Ian’s team-mates. Details of Ian’s funeral will be posted once known.”

Williams made eight appearances last season for Rotherham and the Titans said in a statement: “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.

“It is a real tragedy and a shock and we send our condolences to his family and friends and to everyone at Castle Park.”