A RISING teenage star of French rugby was swept out to sea in South Africa, where he was a member of the national Under-18 squad competing in the International Series.
Utility back Medhi Narjissi, 17, who played fly-half, scrum-half and centre, disappeared during a recovery session in the sea at Diaz Beach, on the western tip of the Cape of Good Hope.
The FFR said in a statement that Narjissi, the son of former Agen and Castres hooker Jalil Narjissi, was carried away by a wave and caught up in strong currents as the group was leaving the water on August 7.
Despite extensive air and sea searches, local rescue crews have not been able to locate him.
Diaz Beach is known for strong rip currents and high waves.
The France squad has withdrawn from the tournament, and flew home on Friday, while Narjissi’s family have travelled to South Africa. An internal investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
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