A British rugby player, aged 26, has died due to a sudden illness, while in Colombo.

The Britisher, part of a team of 22 in Colombo to play a friendly game, was admitted to the hospital with breathing difficulties yesterday, and passed away in the afternoon.

Another player, aged 27, is in critical condition, the Police reported. The two players had left for a night out at the clubs after match played on May 12 and had returned at different times in the early hours of the morning.

He had later complained of breathing difficulties and been admitted to a private hospital in Colombo. His teammate was later admitted for the same reason. Fort Police is conducting investigations.