Rugby player critically injured in pitch incident

THE mother of a rugby union player who is critically ill in hospital following an incident during a match is being flown from Fiji to be by his bedside.

Tuui Redrava, 30, was injured in an incident which happened at the game between York Railway Institute and Doncaster Thornensians on Saturday afternoon in York.

It is understood Redrava was playing for the York RI side when he was injured during an on-field incident.

According to some reports an altercation broke out just before half-time.

North Yorkshire Police have given no further details about how he came to be injured. He was taken to Leeds General Infirmary where he remains in a critical condition.

His club issued a statement on its website yesterday. It said: “Sadly we have to report that one of our back row players was seriously injured in the game against Thornensians and this is now the subject of a police investigation.

“Tuui suffered a serious brain injury and is currently sedated in Leeds General Infirmary. The next week will be critical in his progress.

“The... thoughts of all at RI are with him and his immediate family who are by his bedside. “The club will do everything it can to make the situation easier for them. The RFU has been informed of the situation and all that can be done will be done to assist the investigation.

“Our grateful thanks go to Sarah the physio, Caroline the club steward and players Matt and Dale who all assisted Tuui in very difficult circumstances.

“We are hoping for a speedy recovery and we will keep everyone updated with any progress.”

North Yorkshire Police urged spectators at the match to contact York CID as soon as possible.