Jake Polledri posts emotional tribute after brother's sudden death

Gloucester back-rower Jake Polledri has posted an emotional tribute to Sam Polledri, his younger 24-year-old brother who passed away suddenly with a suspected heart attack. The 26-year-old rugby forward is still on the comeback trail following his serious knee injury when playing for Italy in the 2020 Autumn Nations Cup.

Writing on social media, the Italian player from Bristol who made waves at Hartpury College before switching to Gloucester, said: “With my eyes filled with tears I write that my brother @sam_polledri, aged 24, has passed away of a suspected heart attack.

“It is difficult to put my feelings into words. I feel like a chunk of me and my family has been stolen so cruelly. Sam was my brother, my best friend and a massive supporter of me always! He had so many plans, a lot of love to give & so many things yet to achieve.

“Sam lit up any room he walked into. Selfless, funny & kind. I’m so sorry that his life has been robbed.”

Bristol released the following statement: "Bristol Bears are saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Sam Polledri. Our thoughts are with father Peter, mother Louise and brothers Jake and Lewis. The Bristol Rugby community are behind the Polledri family at this difficult time."

Sam Polledri played for Clifton as well as Dings Crusaders. The club took to Twitter to pay tribute. "We are shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden and tragic passing of Sam Polledri, who was just 24 years old. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. Rest In Peace, Sam."

It was 16 months ago in a Test match versus Scotland when rising Gloucester star Polledri ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament and lateral collateral ligament.