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France Under-18 international Medhi Narjissi is missing after being “swept away by a wave” while swimming in the sea off Cape Town, the French Rugby Federation said.<\/b><\/p>\n
The FFR said the incident took place during a recovery session with other players in South Africa on Wednesday, and that search teams were immediately dispatched.<\/p>\n
Two sea rescue boats and a helicopter were involved but did not find the 17-year-old, who has recently signed for Toulouse.<\/p>\n
The search continued on Thursday as National Sea Rescue Institute spokesman Craig Lambinon said strong rip currents could have swept Narjissi into the surf zone and out to sea.<\/p>\n
Narjissi is a member of the France squad preparing to participate in a five-nation tournament from Monday, also involving England, Ireland and Georgia.<\/p>\n
South African rugby leaders sent condolences to the FFR and the player’s family, who were expected to arrive in South Africa later on Thursday.<\/p>\n
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and the French rugby community for the tragic loss of Medhi,” said Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union.<\/p>\n
“We cannot begin to comprehend the sorrow the family must be feeling at this moment. Please know that the entire rugby fraternity stands with you in mourning the loss of Medhi.<\/p>\n
“This devastating news has been felt deeply across the rugby community here in South Africa and around the world.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n