Bristol Bears' fan favourite Will Hurrell has revealed he suffered a stroke playing for the club against Leicester Tigers on January 4.
Centre Hurrell, was replaced in the 54th minute of the Gallagher Premiership clash at Welford Road by Luke Morahan, for what at the time was believed to be concussion.
Following the game he was admitted to Leicester Royal Infirmary and subsequent investigations throughout the past month now suggest that Hurrell suffered a probable stroke.
Understandably he has not featured in a match day squad since.
Last night the Bears player took to Facebook to clarify his injury situation.
Hurrell wrote: "So, I just wanted to let everyone know about my situation as I have had many supporting, kind and worried messages from you all.
"In my last game I played for Bristol against Leicester I received a head injury, which turned out to be a stroke, an infarction of the artery on my left temporal lobe (for any scientists ).
"It’s been a tough 6 weeks but the support I have received has been unbelievable.
"In particular my parents and the RPA [Rugby Players Association] who have helped me through every step of the way.
"I am feeling better but still [have] severe headaches, memory loss and panic attacks.
"I will try to reply to everyone but thank you for all your kind messages.
"I do not know what the future holds but I am feeling positive whatever that is.
"Thank you all and sorry if I don’t reply straight away!"
An official statement from the Bristol Bears is expected later today.
Hurrell, 30, joined Bristol from Doncaster Knights in 2016 and has been a regular for the club ever since.
In 2018/19 the powerful back was on his way to being a nominee for the Bears player of the season before his season was ended early by a shoulder injury training with the club against England.
Discussing the situation with Hurrell, Bears director of rugby Pat Lam said: “We’ve been told by the specialists that Will’s case is an extremely unusual presentation, including the part of the brain that was affected.
“Given the rare nature of the event, we have been treating the situation with utmost caution to ensure the best outcomes for Will.
“Player safety is of paramount importance and we are aware that there may be a long road of recovery ahead for Will. He has the full support of his teammates, management and staff.”
