Cricket player hurt in dressing room attack
THE behaviour of a spectator at a Huddersfield cricket match is being investigated by police after he walked into the away changing room and assaulted an opposition player.
The man who is understood to be an ex-player of Honley Cricket Club is said to have launched the attack following the conclusion of the Heavy Woollen Cup match against Hanging Heaton of Batley. The attack left the victim needing urgent medical assistance in hospital to see an eye specialist.
Honley Cricket Club said the spectator had been banned indefinitely. In a statement, it said: “The Committee would wish to express its disappointment at the behaviour that was displayed after the Heavy Woollen Cup cricket match held at Honley Cricket Club on Sunday, 8 May. Honley Cricket Club prides itself on being a hub of the local community which upholds the values of cricket and does not condone violence or aggressive behaviour in any way.
“We are working with the police, the league and the ECB to offer our assistance in this matter. The club is also conducting its own investigation into the incident. The spectator who was involved in the incident has been banned indefinitely from the club as this behaviour will not be tolerated.
“Our thoughts are with the injured Hanging Heaton Cricket Club player and we hope he makes a full and speedy recovery. At this stage we ask that no comments or speculation are left on any social media sites while investigations are underway.”
The Huddersfield Cricket League said in a tweet: “The Huddersfield Cricket League is aware of unsavoury and disappointing events that took place during and after the closelyfought Heavy Woollen Cup cricket match between Honley CC and Hanging Heaton CC last Sunday afternoon, 8 May.
“HCL is cooperating with the Heavy Woollen Cup committee to fully investigate these matters as thoroughly and promptly as possible.
“HCL wishes to record its disappointment at these events that risk tarnishing the good name of cricket, the Huddersfield Cricket League and its clubs. The HCL deplores any form of aggressive, abusive, or anti-social behaviour that undermines the proud traditions of the spirit of cricket.
“HCL is continuing to work with the Heavy Woollen Cup Committee to finalise the investigation and determine appropriate disciplinary sanctions.”
A West Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said: “At 8.06pm Sunday evening, police were called to a report of an alleged assault which took place following the conclusion of a cricket match at Honley Cricket Club on Far End Lane between Honley CC and Hanging Heaton CC. It was reported a male was found with facial injuries following an assault. He later attended hospital for treatment.
“Enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact 101 quoting log 1602 of 8th May.”
A spokeswoman for the Solly Sports Heavy Woollen District Challenge Cup Committee said: “This is something we are unable to comment on at the moment.”