Ex-league star Scott Dureau dies at 39 after cancer battle

Former rugby league star Scott Dureau has died at the age of 39 following a lengthy battle with cancer. His former club, the Catalans Dragons, confirmed his passing last night, noting he had been courageously fighting the illness for several years.

Dureau was a celebrated figure in both the Super League and Australia's National Rugby League. He played 42 games over four seasons with the Newcastle Knights before moving to France to join the Catalans Dragons, where he made 97 appearances. His talent was recognized with selections to the British Super League's "Dream Team" in 2011 and 2012, and he won the Albert Goldthorpe Medal in 2012.

“

Beyond the exceptional player that he was, Scott was a man cherished by all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Beyond his on-field success, Dureau is remembered for his character. "Beyond the exceptional player that he was, Scott was a man cherished by all those who had the privilege of knowing him," the Dragons' statement read. "His talent and numerous achievements on the field, but above all his humility and kindness, will forever be etched in our memories." He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

After retiring from playing in 2015, Dureau transitioned into a coaching role with the Knights. He had been battling cancer for over a decade, having initially retired from playing after a tumor was removed from behind his eye.

“

His talent and numerous achievements on the field, but above all his humility and kindness, will forever be etched in our memories.