Club rugby player dies after horror tackle

Cape Town - Kyle Barnes, the 31-year-old club rugby player who was left on life support following a freakish head and neck injury that he sustained over the weekend, has died. 

The incident reached a tragic end on Thursday morning when the decision was taken to switch off the life support machines that were keeping him alive. 

Barnes, a wing for Goodwood Rugby Club, was hit by a nasty tackle while playing against Strand, in Strand, on Saturday. 

He was immediately taken to hospital following the incident and was operated on in an attempt to alleviate the pressure on his brain. 

Goodwood Rugby Club chairperson, Johann Vorster, confirmed the news to Sport24 on Friday. 

"The club is incredibly saddened by this tragic event and our condolences are with the family," Vorster said.

"He was a great guy, a gentleman and example to others. He will forever be in our memory."

Barnes leaves behind twins - a son and a daughter - who turned eight on the day of their father's passing. 

It is with great shock and sadness to have learnt of the passing of Former student Kyle Barnes. On behalf of the Northlink Sports Department, We extend our condolences to the Barnes family and those he`s left behind.... https://t.co/8Z1zr72yQF

— Northlink College (@northlink) September 21, 2018

WPRFU offered condolences to the family of Goodwood RFC captain Kyle Barnes, who sadly passed away as the result of a rugby-related injury. His twins Caylib and Caylin were hosted at DHL Newlands where they received special birthday gifts https://t.co/opK0Nl9dtL #WeStandTogether

— WP RUGBY (@WP_RUGBY) September 20, 2018