An up-and-coming New Zealand Warriors player has died in Christchurch.
A new member of the NRL franchise's under-20 squad, Tala Mailei, 17, was found dead in Christchurch on Sunday after having returned home for the Christmas break.
Warriors managing director Jim Doyle says the entire club is devastated by Mailei's death.
"We're in shock. This is dreadful for Tala's family and also for all of us at the club," he said on Sunday.
"We are giving the family all the support we can and will also be offering the same for all our players and staff."
The youngster had been impressing Warriors staff and was set to be a part of their NYC squad next year.
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