The Malta Rugby Football Union is mourning the death of national team player Kyle Mason.

Mason, 33, had been a regular for the national team during the last few years, playing a key role for Malta Rugby to go up the ladder in the International Rugby Board rankings.

He made his debut for Malta in one of the country's first international matches in 2004 when the national team beat Moldova 22-8 in a FIRA-AER Championship Division D3 match.

In total, Mason collected 26 caps for Malta.

The Malta Rugby Football Union issued a statement in honour of Kyle Mason.

“The news of Kyle’s passing came as a great shock to the Malta Rugby community and messages of condolences are coming in from around the world.

“There is an outpouring of Love for our fallen comrade, who won the respect of many, wearing the Malta National Rugby team colours.

“He not only played for Malta but also for the Royal Navy, playing several times in the very physical and passionate Army Versus Navy games at Twickenham, known as the home of Rugby.

“Strong in stature, as tough as teak, he played in the front row in the scrum, requiring not only strength but technique, playing in that position for Malta in 26 games.

“Our condolences go out to his family, friends and shipmates, we will remember his big smile and laughter, he will always wear the Number 1 jersey for us.

“Rest in Peace Kyle!”