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RFU Championship game abandoned after freak injury to referee

By Ian Cameron
AMPTHILL, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: Referee Alex Thomas during the Premiership Rugby Cup match between Ampthill Rugby and Bath Rugby at Dillingham Park on November 02, 2024 in Ampthill, England. (Photo by Harry Murphy/Getty Images)

An RFU Championship match was abandoned after referee Alex Thomas was knocked unconscious by a ball on Saturday.

The RFU Championship clash between Hartpury and Ampthill was halted in the 28th minute after Hartpury fly-half Harry Bazalgate's clearing kick struck Thomas in the head.

The referee collapsed immediately, prompting medical staff to rush onto the field.

Thomas received on-field treatment before being stretchered off and taken for further medical assessment.

Hartpury were leading 14-0 at the time of the incident.

Ampthill issued a statement following the abandonment, expressing their concern: "Our thoughts are with Alex for a swift recovery. We appreciate that the decision is disappointing for supporters who have travelled to the game, but our priority is the health of the players and match officials."

The fixture will be rescheduled, with all tickets remaining valid for the rearranged game.