This archive report was first published on 18 August 2019.
Tragedy struck in France where 20-year-old rugby league player Archie Bruce was found dead in his hotel room.
Archie Bruce made his debut for Championship side Batley Bulldogs from the bench last night against Toulouse, but his body was discovered early this morning.
According to a statement from club chairman Kevin Nicholas, Archie's immediate family has been informed, and the club, along with the RFL and the RFL Benevolent Fund, will be supporting the family while enquiries by the French authorities continue.
"The Bruce family have requested privacy during this most difficult of times," the statement read.
Archie Bruce was signed by Batley Bulldogs from local amateur side Dewsbury Moor ahead of the trip to France due to a depleted squad.
Former Leeds Rhinos and Great Britain star Keith Senior tweeted: "Never nice to hear news like this especially at such a young age. Condolences to all his family and friends."
England winger Jermaine McGilvary said: "Such shocking news. RIP Archie, thoughts go out to his family."
Archie Bruce was joined in the Batley side by fellow debutant George Senior as Toulouse ran out 46-0 winners on Saturday night.
