Harlequins today announced the sad news of the death of 21-year-old scrum-half Nick Duncombe of meningitis.
Duncombe, who had played twice for England, against Scotland and Ireland in the 6 Nations last year, was taken ill while training in Lanzarote.
The Taplow-born player was first choice for Quins and last played for them on January 4 against Bristol Shoguns.
A statement from the club read: "It is with profound regret that NEC Harlequins have to announce that Nick Duncombe passed away yesterday afternoon, after having been taken into hospital during a week's training in Lanzarote.
"Nick, 21, won two caps for England in last season's 6 Nations Championships, and also represented England in the Commonwealth Games in Manchester last August.
"At this very sad time, everyone at Harlequins would wish to pass on their condolences to Steve and Helen, Nick's parents, and the rest of his family."
England Head Coach, Clive Woodward, today spoke on behalf of the England squad to pay tribute to Nick Duncombe who passed away suddenly yesterday.
Clive Woodward said "The squad were informed of the news that Nick had died suddenly yesterday. Our immediate sympathies and thoughts are with Nick and his family at this difficult time.
"Nick was one of our brightest and most talented players in the game. The two caps he gained with England last year, would have been, I believe, the beginning of a long international career, which had already started so well with some superb performances for the England U19 and Sevens teams.
"Nick was hugely popular with the squad and at his club NEC Harlequins and his attitude to the game was outstanding. I'm sure that all supporters and players will share the loss of one of rugby's brightest stars."
England sevens coach Joe Lydon added his sympathies to Nick's family and paid his own tribute on behalf of the England Sevens squad.
"All of our thoughts are with Nick's family, friends and team-mates. Nick was an outstanding player and one of the most talented and charismatic scrum halves I have ever seen or worked with. He made a massive contribution to our success in Sevens last year and he was a popular member of the squad. It is a tragedy that what I'm sure would have been a long and successful life on and off the field has been cut short in such tragic circumstances."
Derek Morgan, President of the Rugby Football Union also paid tribute.
"Nick was an outstanding athlete and his loss will be sorely felt. To lose his life so young is a tragedy for his family and friends who have our deepest sympathies.
"Nick played his schools rugby at RGS High Wycombe, a school responsible for so many talented players, of which Nick was yet another who went on to achieve full international honours.
"We will be paying tribute to Nick before this afternoon's match against France with a one minute silence."
Chief Executive, Francis Baron said "The whole game will be devastated at this tragic news. Nick had such a bright future ahead of him and his loss is one that will be felt deeply by the sport."