Goodwood Rugby Club wing Kyle Barnes has died after suffering a freak neck and head injury while playing for the club’s 1st XV on the weekend.

The 31-year-old was taken to hospital after getting injured in the Super League C encounter between Goodwood and Strand in Strand on Saturday.

He underwent surgery at Somerset West Mediclinic, but unfortunately did not recover and the decision was made on Thursday to switch off his life support.

Barnes leaves behind a son and daughter who both turned eight on the day of their father’s passing.

Western Province will wear black armbands in their Currie Cup encounter against Griquas and hold a minute’s silence in memory of Barnes.