Welsh rugby player Gavin Quinnell has permanently lost the sight in his left eye following an incident during Llanelli’s Premiership game against Cross Keys.
The Scarlets, in a statement issued jointly with the Quinnell family, confirmed the 26-year-old forward had received the news following consultation with a team of ophthalmic specialists at Newport’s Royal Gwent Hospital.
Quinnell is the brother of former Wales international forwards Scott and Craig, and son of ex-Wales and Lions number eight Derek.
The Scarlets also stated the matter is now in the hands of Gwent Police, who are investigating an allegation of assault.
Quinnell was hurt during last Saturday’s match at Pandy Park, and subsequently underwent eye surgery.
The Scarlets and Llanelli RFC lodged a formal citing complaint with the Welsh Rugby Union earlier this week, which is currently being dealt with through the WRU’s disciplinary processes.
“It is with a huge disappointment and regret that today we can confirm that our Scarlets player Gavin Quinnell has received a conclusive report from medics that he has permanently lost his sight in his left eye,” read the statement.
“Gavin underwent eye surgery on Saturday night at Newport’s Royal Gwent Hospital following an injury he sustained playing for Llanelli RFC on Saturday afternoon.
“The news was confirmed to him yesterday afternoon following a consultation with a team of ophthalmic specialists at the hospital.
“Naturally, the Quinnell family are all shocked and devastated and have asked to be given time and space to come to terms with the news and allow them to concentrate on giving Gavin their full support and attention.”
Quinnell rejoined the Scarlets region this summer, returning to Llanelli following a spell with Italian club Viadana. He had previously played for Worcester.
The statement continued: “Gavin and his family have asked the Scarlets to express their gratitude for the numerous messages of support and the heartfelt wishes they have received from the rugby community across the world and from supporters of the Scarlets.
“The family would like to add that Gavin is coping well, given what he has been through, and they are all very proud of the way he is handling the situation.
“It is very sad news for all those connected with Llanelli rugby, the Scarlets family and rugby as a whole, and all our best wishes and thoughts are with Gavin.
“The Scarlets will continue to offer Gavin and his family all the support they require going forward.
“The Scarlets and Llanelli RFC lodged a formal citing complaint on Monday, October 4 to the Welsh Rugby Union in connection with an incident at Cross Keys RFC on Saturday, October 2 in the Principality Premiership.
“The matter is now in the hands of Gwent Police, who are investigating an allegation of assault. Therefore, no further information will be released while these enquiries are ongoing.”