PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka and CEO of Widness Vikings, James Rule have expressed shock and grief at the passing of Papua New Guinean winger, Kato Ottio.
The 23-year-old was to make his debut with English club, Widnes, this year after stints in Australia’s National Rugby League and the Intrust Super Cup since 2014.
In December 2017, Ottio signed with the Widnes Vikings of the Super League in the United Kingdom.
” We will be keeping close contact with the family to know of developments,” said Rule.
The Kumul was rushed to the Pacific International Hospital after collapsing after a training session yesterday.
The player, according to the statement issued the PNGRFL, passed away at 2am at the hospital.
The details of his passing will later be released.
The late Kumuls Winger has been taken to the family home in Tatana village and he will later be taken to the Funeral Home at 10 am.
Fans have also taken to social media platform, Facebook to share their condolences.
