UK Armed Forces rugby ready for Fiji semi-final following death of AB Steffan Rees

The UK Armed Forces (UKAF) rugby union squad is ready for their forces rugby world cup semi-final after a "very distressing week" following the death of squad member Able Seaman Steffan Rees.

The coaching staff of the UKAF side told Forces News it has been a very difficult week but the team have received plenty of support.

Tributes have poured in, in support of the UKAF squad in Brittany, France, following the tragic death of AB Rees who was described as a "dear friend" and "valued teammate".

The squad reached the semi-finals of the 2023 International Defence Rugby Competition (IDRC) after wins over Tonga, Georgia and Spain, but AB Rees' loss has rocked the whole camp.

Saturday saw the squad hold their final training camp to prepare for the semi-final with Fiji.

AB Rees' number 12 shirt has been retired.

During the game, the players will wear black arm bands as well as hold a minute's silence as a further mark of respect before the game kicks off.

The match is being played in Rennes, with kick-off at 13:00 UK time, and the game will be live-streamed across the Forces News YouTube channel and Facebook page.

The match will also be shown on BFBS TV to service personnel and their families overseas and on Royal Navy ships.