A Super League club are in mourning after the death of one of their former players, aged just 39.

Australian half-back Scott Dureau made 89 Super League appearances for Catalans Dragons from 2011-2015, scoring 29 tries, 315 goals and 10 one-pointers. The former Newcastle Knights player’s death was announced today (Monday) following a long illness.

An emotional club statement said: “The Catalans Dragons are devastated to learn of the passing of Scott Dureau. A former iconic player of the club, Scott had been courageously battling cancer for several years.

Scott Dureau touches down for Catalans Dragons against London Broncos at the 2013 Magic Weekend in Manchester. Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com.

“Beyond being an exceptional player, Scott was a man admired by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His outstanding talent and achievements on the field, but above all his humility and kindness, will forever remain in our memories.

“At this difficult time, chairman Bernard Guasch and everyone at the Catalans Dragons send their deepest condolences to his wife Libby, his two daughters Imogen and Everly, his family and all those who were close to him.”

Dureau featured in the 2011 and 2012 Super League Dream Teams and appeared twice for the Exiles, a team made up of Super League players from overseas, against England. He had a spell on Knights’ coaching staff after hanging up his boots 11 years ago.