Gloucester star and Italy back-rower Jake Polledri has opened up on his grief after his younger brother Sam died at the age of 24 following a "suspected heart attack."
Former Bristol flanker Polledri took to social media on Tuesday with "eyes filled with tears" to update his followers on the tragedy that has rocked him and his family.
The 26-year-old rugby international uploaded a compilation of pictures showing him and his late sibling alongside other family members, as well as Sam as a budding rugby player himself.
"It is difficult to put my feelings into words," he wrote via Instagram. "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.
"Life will never be the same again. He has taught me so much and I will carry this with me in every step of my life.
"Rest in peace mio fratello! Till me meet again."
Fellow Italy international Tiziano Pasquali mourned his team-mate's loss and commented: "No words…send love to you and your family."
Azzurri-capped Jimmy Tuivaiti posted his own tribute and replied: "Nooooooo brooooo. Man uce [an abbreviation of "uso," a Samoan term for "brother"] my deepest condolences Jake!!!"
Wales international Callum Sheedy was also among those to pay his respects, commenting: "So sorry to hear mate. Thoughts and love with you and family."
The Bristol-born brothers are sons of Peter Polledri who represented Bristol and captained England's under-23s, as well as playing for Gloucestershire and local outfit Clifton.
Jake is currently on the comeback trail from a prolonged injury absence and hasn't featured for Gloucester nor Italy since he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during the 2020 Autumn Nations Cup.
The 19-cap international also represented Bristol Bears in the Premiership 'A League' before he switched allegiances to rivals Gloucester in 2017.
The top-flight outfit were among those to pay tribute to Sam and said in a statement: "The club is 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 had followed in his family's footsteps by playing for Clifton and Dings Crusaders [whom Jake once represented].
The latter joined in Wednesday's well wishes as a club tweet read: "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.”
