Police probe match fracas after rugby player critically injured

Paul Jeeves

DETECTIVES have launched an investigation after a rugby union player was critically injured in an altercation during a match in Yorkshire.

Tuui Redrava was playing in only his third game for York Railway Institute RUFC when he suffered serious head injuries in the incident which took place just before half-time in the home match against Doncaster Thornesians on Saturday.

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It is understood that the 30-year-old Fijian is stationed in North Yorkshire with the Armed Forces, and he only joined the York side at the start of the season.

Andy Daw, who is in his second full season as the club’s coach, said: “He is a lovely guy and a real gentle giant, although we don’t know him that well as he has only played a few games for us. Unfortunately I cannot discuss the actual incident. But what I can say is that the next 24 hours are going to be critical for Tuui and our thoughts are with him and his family.”

Detectives from North Yorkshire Police have appealed for members of the crowd who may have witnessed the altercation to come forward. A force spokesman confirmed yesterday afternoon that no arrests had been made. Detective Inspector David Ellis said: “It is believed that there were a number of witnesses to the incident and I would ask them to get in touch.”

Mr Redrava was injured at about 4pm on Saturday in the incident, which happened on the pitch at the York club’s New Lane ground in the Holgate neighbourhood of the city.

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He was taken to Leeds General Infirmary for treatment, and his condition was described yesterday by the police spokesman as “critical but stable”. No-one was available for comment yesterday from Doncaster Thornesians, who narrowly won the Yorkshire Division Three game 13-12.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact detectives involved in the investigation via North Yorkshire Police’s switchboard on 0845 6060247.