English Rugby Match Abandoned After Referee Knocked Unconscious by Ball

The Championship game between Hartpury and Ampthill was halted after referee Alex Thomas was struck in the head by a clearing kick and taken off on a stretcher.

• The English Championship rugby match between Hartpury and Ampthill was abandoned 28 minutes in after referee Alex Thomas was knocked unconscious by a ball.
• Thomas was struck in the head by a clearing kick from Hartpury fly-half Harry Bazalgette and received medical attention on the field before being stretchered off.
• Hartpury were leading 14-0 at the time of the incident, with tries scored by Ethan Hunt and Aristot Benz-Salomon.
• Ampthill released a statement wishing Thomas a swift recovery and confirmed that the fixture will be rescheduled, with all tickets remaining valid for the rematch.
• The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has yet to comment on the incident, which underscores the importance of player and official safety in the sport.

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