India Chipchase murder: Rugby team pays tribute

Northampton Saints' fans and players paid tribute India Chipchase. Photo / Northampton Saints Twitter and Evan Reihana Instagram

An English rugby team has paid tribute to alleged murder victim India Chipchase by holding a minute's applause before the game.

Northampton Saint's fans and players paid tribute to the 20-year-old who was found dead on January 31.

India was the partner of Evan Reihana, whose father Bruce Reihana is a former All Black who later joined the Northampton Saints in 2002.

Thanks to everyone at the Gardens this afternoon for their respectful applause to remember India Eve Chipchase pic.twitter.com/QGd67j4gtc

— Northampton Saints 😇 (@SaintsRugby) February 27, 2016

According to the Northampton Chronicle, a minute's applause was held at Franklin's Gardens before the match against Worcester on Saturday.

India's brother Harry tweeted that the tribute was a "lovely touch".

The doctor's daughter was a keen Northampton Saints rugby supporter.

India was found dead after a night out with friends. An inquest heard she died due to pressure on her neck.

Edward Tenniswood, 51, has been charged with her murder and has been remanded in custody. He is due to appear in court on May 27.

After her death Mr Reihana dedicated his career to her.

The sportsman, who is playing for Bordeaux Beagles in France, wrote on Instagram: "I can't believe you have left us India. I will be playing for you for as long as I know."

- nzherald.co.nz