KEIGHLEY Cougars star Danny Jones died this evening after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest during their League One match at London Skolars.

Wales international Jones, 29, collapsed after being replaced early in the game and was treated by the match doctor and paramedics at the ground before being taken to the Royal Free Hospital in London.

Despite extensive efforts to resuscitate him, Jones passed away at the hospital.

He leaves behind wife Liz and five-month-old twins.

Rugby Football League chief operating Officer Ralph Rimmer said: "It is always devastating when someone so young dies in these circumstances.

"Danny was a popular and talented rugby league player, having played at the highest level with the Wales national team and playing over 12 seasons for Keighley and Halifax.

"The rugby league community will mourn his loss and I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Danny's family and friends at this incredibly sad time.

"We would ask that the privacy of the Jones family, players and Keighley Cougars staff be respected."

Keighley, York City Knights' rivals in League One, are coached by former Knights player-boss Paul March.

The match was abandoned after 16 minutes.