- A rugby union referee was knocked unconscious during a Championship fixture
- The second-tier clash was ultimately abandoned 28 minutes into the game
A Championship rugby game between Ampthill and Hartpury was abandoned on Saturday after referee Alex Thomas was injured.
Thomas appeared to be knocked unconscious when he was inadvertently struck by clearing kick from Hartpury fly-half Harry Bazalgate during the first half.
The visitors had taken a 14-0 lead at The Olney Field when the game was halted following the incident.
Medical staff administered aid before carrying Thomas off the pitch on a stretcher.
The decision was then made to abandon the fixture after 28 minutes had been played.
In a statement following the incident, Ampthill expressed their concern for Thomas, and announced that the game would be rearranged for a later date.
A Championship game was abandoned on Saturday after referee Alex Thomas appeared to be knockout out after being hit by the ball
It read: ‘We regret that this afternoon’s game had to be abandoned after 28 minutes of play due to an injury to referee, Alex Thomas.
‘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 for health of the players and match officials.
‘The fixture will be rearranged in due course and all tickets will be valid for this game.’
Hartpury currently sit sixth in the Championship table, 13 points behind league leaders Ealing Trailfinders.
