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A Dunedin cricketer has had a serious accident while holidaying in Spain and his club has rallied to raise funds to help ease the financial burden.
Will Hamilton, who hails from Ōhoka, near Christchurch, but has played for North East Valley for the past three seasons, has spent the past two offseasons in the United Kingdom playing for Barby Cricket Club.
Earlier this month, Hamilton travelled to Barcelona with a friend and sustained significant facial injuries and two fractured vertebrae after diving into a swimming pool that was much shallower than he had anticipated.
Barby Cricket Club has set up a Givealittle page to help cover the middle-order batter’s emergency hospital and surgery costs.
“This has come as a complete shock and because the accident happened overseas, Will is now facing substantial hospital and medical costs totalling about €40,000 [$NZ78,700],’’ it said.
“As a club, we wanted to come together and give everyone who has asked how they can help an opportunity to support Will during this incredibly difficult time.’’
North East Valley has also posted the Givealittle link.
Swans captain Hunter Kindley encouraged people to help if they were able.
“He’s one of the great blokes, to be honest.
“It’s a terrible shame.
“Anything that people can do to help is going to be hugely appreciated and that’s why we put it up on our social media.
“We’re just feeling for our mate right now.
“Hopefully he can make a full recovery and get home pretty soon.’’