Rugby league rocked by star’s death at 31

Rugby league icon Adam Walker has died aged 31 with tributes pouring in for the popular former prop.

The star came through the ranks at Huddersfield Giants and then made more than 100 appearances for Hull KR across three years, The Sun reports.

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He then spent brief stints at St Helens, Wakefield and Salford and featured in both the Challenge Cup final and the Grand Final.

Walker earned 14 caps for Scotland between 2012 and 2019, representing his nation at the 2013 World Cup.

Scotland Rugby League operations director Ollie Cruickshank said: “Everyone involved with Scotland Rugby League is saddened to learn of the passing of Adam.

“Adam played with pride every time he stepped on the pitch for Scotland and was a member of our 2013 World Cup squad and a part of our 2014 European Championship winning squad.

“Our thoughts are with Adam’s family and friends at this time.”

Former teams and teammates took to social media to mourn his tragic passing.

“Champion teammate and someone who was miss understood. Best wishes to family and close friends during this tough time.”

Salford Red Devils tweeted: “Following the sad news earlier today, we offer our condolences to the family of Adam Walker on behalf of everyone at Salford Red Devils.”

St Helens added: “We join the rest of rugby league in sending our deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Saint Adam Walker. #OnceaSaintAlwaysaSaint”

Huddersfield Giants posted: “Huddersfield Giants are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of our former player, Adam Walker.

“Adam came through the club’s Academy and played for the first team from 2010 to 2012. The thoughts of all at the club are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Grieving rugby league fans also took to Twitter to express their sorrow and pay their respects, with many posting “rest in peace”.

One Hull KR fan wrote: “Always gave his all on the field for Rovers and was unlucky not to win a grand final with Salford. RIP.”

Another supporter commented: “Such sad news that former Rovers prop Adam Walker has passed away at a tragically young age.

“Had his issues off the pitch, but he always led from the front on it. Sympathies to family, friends and former teammates.”

And a final Salford supporter wrote: “So very saddened to hear about Adam Walker.

“My condolences and love go to twin Brother Jonathan, Mum, Dad, friends and family. Once a Red, Always a Red.”

This story first appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission.

Originally published as Footy rocked as Super League icon Adam Walker dies aged 31