Rugby Match Halted After Referee Alex Thomas Struck by Ball

Referee Alex Thomas, who has officiated in top-tier English men’s and women’s rugby matches, saw the Championship rugby union game between Ampthill and Hartpury called off after he was struck by a clearing kick during the first half. Thomas appeared to lose consciousness after being hit by the clearance kick from Hartpury fly-half Harry Bazalgette. At the time of the incident, the visiting team was ahead 14-0. Medical personnel attended to Thomas on the field, and he was subsequently removed from play on a stretcher. The match, which is part of the second tier of English rugby union, was officially halted moments later. Ampthill, the Bedfordshire-based team, issued a statement saying: “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 club added, “Our thoughts are with Alex for a swift recovery.” Hartpury, positioned fifth in the league standings at the start of the match and two places higher than Ampthill, had established their lead with a try scored by Ethan Hunt. Aristot Benz-Salomon then scored a second try for Hartpury just prior to the incident that led to the game’s conclusion after 28 minutes of play.