The 28-year-old died in hospital following a serious spinal injury sustained playing for his club in April.

“Everyone in the world of rugby was shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of such a fine young man,” said Martyn Thomas, chairman of the RFU management board.

“The thoughts of everyone within our game are with Gareth’s family, friends and colleagues at this terrible time and we send them our deepest condolences.”

England’s Under-20 side are based in Wales for this month’s IRB Junior World Championship, where teams observed a minute’s silence before Wednesday’s round of matches.

Head coach Nigel Redman added: “The rugby community is a tight-knit one and on behalf of our squad I’d like to add to the tributes paid to Gareth and to offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends.”