Seru Rabeni, the former Fiji and Leicester Tigers player, has died aged 37.
According to Fijivillage.com, Rabeni died while having breakfast at his home in the Fijian town of Nausori.
Rabeni's father-in-law explained that winger had been sick recently but had recovered.
The winger, known as a powerful runner and tough tackler, won 30 caps for Fiji and played at two World Cups, 2003 and 2007, making nine appearances. He also made nine appearances for the Pacific Islands, one of which was at Lansdowne Road in 2006. Rabeni scored one of three tries for the Pacific Islands that day in a 61-17 loss.
He is best known in the northern hemisphere for his time with the Leicester Tigers, playing for the Premiership side between 2004 and 2009.
We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Seru Rabeni. Our thoughts go to all his friends and family pic.twitter.com/QN07b4bgUO
— Leicester Tigers (@LeicesterTigers) March 15, 2016
Several of Rabeni's former teams, teammates and opponents have paid tribute.
So sad to wake up to the news of the passing of Seru Rabeni. Thoughts and prayers with his family. Rest in peace brother #tigersfamily
— Johne Murphy (@MurphyJohne) March 15, 2016
Very sad day with the news of the passing of former @LeicesterTigers player Seru Rabeni.#RIPSERU pic.twitter.com/flQYEEasAN
— Premiership Rugby (@premrugby) March 15, 2016
Such sad news hearing about Seru Rabeni's death, was a honour playing against him top man #RIP #Gonetosoon
— matt banahan (@mattbanahan1) March 15, 2016
Such sad news to wake to, that Seru Rabeni has died. Fantastic player & great to of played with him at @LeicesterTigers. Rest in peace Seru
— Tom Varndell (@Tom_Varndell) March 15, 2016
Sad to hear the passing of a great warrior on the field & humble as they come off if, R.i.P dreu #Rabeni #unclseru pic.twitter.com/grN0G3Oana
— Joe Rokocoko (@J_Rokocoko) March 15, 2016
Life is precious.The passing of Seru Rabeni is tragic news,taken too young , but let us remember to enjoy our time .R.I.P my friend.x
— Gareth Thomas (@gareththomas14) March 15, 2016
Saddened to hear of the passing of Seru Rabeni today, our thoughts are with your family. #Highlander92 pic.twitter.com/iou9hONsrS
— Highlanders (@Highlanders) March 15, 2016
Picture credit; Brian Lawless / SPORTSFILE
