Shock following the Highlanders player’s sudden death

Young New Zealand rugby player Connor Garden-Bachop died on Monday evening after a “medical incident”.

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZR) confirmed his death on Tuesday. He was only 25 years old.

“Connor was popular among his teammates and a great father to his twin daughters. He was loved by all who knew him,” the NZR said in an official statement.

He made his debut for the Maori All Blacks in 2022.

Garden-Bachop is the son of former All Black Stephen Bachop, while his mother also played national sport for New Zealand.

Susan Garden-Bachop ran for the Black Ferns, while his uncle, Graeme Bachop, also played for the All Blacks.

Jona Nareki, one of Garden-Bachop’s Highlanders teammates, paid tribute to the winger on social media.

“Rest in peace, my brother.”

The Blues Rugby Union also extended their condolences to Garden-Bachop and his teammates.

“Our deepest condolences to everyone who played with him. We are thinking of the Highlanders family.”

On Saturday, Garden-Bachop thanked the Highlanders on Instagram for an unforgettable five years after the retirement of this Super Rugby team.

“Thank you to all the players – it was an honor and a privilege to share the field with you. The fans down south always made me feel welcome. I’m going to miss you,” the message said.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family, friends and teammates of Connor Garden-Bachop who passed away yesterday.

He will be remembered as a popular teammate among the Māori All Blacks, Highlanders and Wellington. Arohanui????

Statement: https://t.co/bKrXvbeQff pic.twitter.com/fO2KVH6Cez

— New Zealand Rugby (@NZRugby) June 17, 2024

We join the rugby community in mourning the sudden passing of Connor Garden-Bachop.

Sending love to the Garden-Bachop family – we are all here ????️ pic.twitter.com/9Kyb17xKBx

— Queensland Reds (@Reds_Rugby) June 17, 2024

As part of @SuperRugby family, the NSW Waratahs would like to acknowledge the sad and sudden passing of Connor Garden-Bachop.

Our deepest condolences to Connor’s family, friends and teammates. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all????

Rest in peace, Connor ????️ pic.twitter.com/bW4ZKig1U3

— NSW Waratahs (@NSWWaratahs) June 18, 2024