All Blacks Young Gun, Connor Garden-Bachop, Dies Aged 25

Rising Star's Tragic Passing Shocks the Rugby Community

Heartbreaking News for Highlanders and Māori All Blacks

New Zealand Rugby has confirmed the devastating news of the sudden passing of Connor Garden-Bachop, a promising rugby union player for the Highlanders and Māori All Blacks, at the age of 25.

Garden-Bachop, who was of Cook Islands descent, passed away on Monday following a medical event. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed.

The news has sent shockwaves through the rugby community, with tributes and condolences pouring in for the young player. Garden-Bachop was widely regarded as a rising star with a bright future in the sport.

New Zealand Rugby expressed its deepest sympathies to Garden-Bachop's family, friends, and teammates.