A T20 cricket match in Upper Hutt descended into violence on Saturday evening after a disputed umpire decision sparked a heated confrontation between players.
According to a report by Stuff, the brawl occurred around 5 pm at Trentham Park during a match between Hutt District Cricket Club Royal Blues and Upper Hutt United Cricket Club, Bharat XI. A video shared with Stuff shows players from both teams striking each other with what appear to be bats and stumps.
A witness, who did not wish to be named, said the altercation erupted moments after an umpire’s call triggered a verbal argument that quickly escalated into physical fighting.
Cricket Wellington confirmed it was aware of the incident and was working to establish the facts.
“Cricket Wellington takes all matters of player and participant safety extremely seriously, and at this stage, we are in the process of understanding exactly what occurred,” the organisation said in a statement. “Once all relevant information has been gathered, we will follow the disciplinary process outlined in the Cricket Wellington Code of Conduct to ensure appropriate action is taken,” as quoted by Stuff.
Upper Hutt Cricket Club also acknowledged the altercation, saying both clubs recognised the seriousness of the matter. “At this stage, we are in the process of understanding exactly what occurred,” the club said, adding that it would support the disciplinary process once details are confirmed, as reported by Stuff.
Match records on PlayHQ show the Royal Blues won the fixture by forfeit after scoring 8/155 in 20 overs, while the Bharat XI squad reached 1/24 in three overs before play ended, Stuff reported.
Police said they had not received any reports regarding the incident.
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