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Tributes flow for ex-All Black

Ex-New Zealand rugby star Jerry Collins has died in a car crash in France on Friday.

The 34-year-old and partner Alana were killed when a bus crashed into their car in southern France, near the town of Beziers.

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Samoa-born and Wellington-raised Collins, 34, was capped 48 times for New Zealand. The couple were also travelling with their two-month-old daughter, Ayla, who survived the accident but is in a serious condition, officials said.

Collins’ manager, Tim Castle, said in a statement: “The family and I are distraught at the death of a much-loved son, brother and friend, and his partner Alana, whom I got to know recently.

“I have been in touch with Jerry’s father, Frank, and other members of his family who are in Samoa at the moment. It’s obviously a terribly difficult time for them and together with New Zealand rugby we are doing all we can to support them.

“I have also been in touch with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who are also doing everything they can to ensure that baby Ayla is getting all the care and support she needs. I am very grateful for their support.”

New Zealand Rugby’s general manager Neil Sorensen said: “The news has shocked us all and our thoughts are with Jerry and Alana’s families at this terribly sad time.

“We offer our deepest condolences to them and will support them as they come to terms with this devastating news.”

Former All Blacks scrum-half Piri Weepu added on Twitter: “Had the privilege and honour of bleeding with him on the weekends on the field. Words can’t express how sad I am brother. RIP big brother JC!”

Collins, a cousin of former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga, made his All Blacks debut in 2001 and played his last Test when losing to France in the 2007 World Cup quarter-finals.

Collins returned to rugby earlier this year after signing with French second division club Narbonne, replacing injured Australian Rocky Elsom. He had retired from the game two years earlier when finishing up with Japanese club Yamaha.

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