Scotland international Siobhan Cattigan dies aged 26

Planet Rugby

Scotland's Siobhan Cattigan receives treatment for a head injury during the Guinness Women's Six Nations match at Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow. Issue date: Saturday April 24, 2021.

Scottish Rugby have announced that international back-row Siobhan Cattigan has died suddenly at the age of just 26.

Cattigan earned 19 caps for the country after making her debut in 2018 and started all three matches in the 2021 Six Nations.

Her club Stirling described her as an “inspiration”, with the governing body adding that she was a “talented back-row forward and all-round rugby player.”

A statement from Scottish Rugby read: “Scottish Rugby is deeply saddened to hear Scotland international Siobhan Cattigan has died.

“The thoughts of all our people and players go out to Siobhan’s family and many team-mates at Stirling County and Scotland at this incredibly difficult time.

“Specialist Scottish Rugby employees are now providing ongoing support to those most closely affected.”

A heavy heart

A statement from Stirling added: “It’s with a heavy heart we pass on the news of the tragic passing of Siobhan (Shibby) on Friday November 26.

“Shibby has been a big part of County for many years and will be hugely missed by everyone at the club. She was central to the development of women’s rugby within the club and an inspiration to the girls in the youth section.

“Shibby was a team-mate and friend and we deeply mourn her loss. Our love, thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Shibby’s family at this devastating time.

“We very much hope their privacy will be respected by everyone as they deal with their tragic loss.”