Grief Strikes Rugby Community as Young French Player Goes Missing in Cape Town

A French rugby player, Medhi Narjissi, part of the France under-18 team, went missing after being swept away by a wave off Cape Town. Extensive search efforts, including sea rescue boats and a helicopter, have yet to locate him. Condolences were extended to his family by rugby authorities.

A French rugby player, Medhi Narjissi, part of the France under-18 team scheduled to compete in a four-nation tournament in South Africa, went missing Wednesday after being swept away by a wave off Cape Town, authorities confirmed.

Despite immediate rescue efforts involving two sea rescue boats and a helicopter, the 17-year-old remains missing. Strong rip currents are believed to have pulled him into the surf zone and out to sea, explained National Sea Rescue Institute spokesman Craig Lambinon.

The search continued on Thursday with police divers scouring the area. SA Rugby extended condolences to Narjissi's family, acknowledging the deep impact on the rugby community both in South Africa and globally. The tournament will include teams from Georgia and Ireland, though any scheduling impact is yet undetermined.