Scarlets shocked by WRU verdict

The Scarlets are dismayed at a WRU decision to take no further action regarding an incident that left Gavin Quinnell blind in one eye.

The Scarlets have voiced their dismay at a WRU disciplinary panel decision to take no further action in the case regarding an incident that left forward Gavin Quinnell blind in one eye.

In a statement released on Monday, Scarlets expressed their “astonishment and deep shock” after a WRU disciplinary panel hearing did not uphold the citing and a subsequent appeal last week put forward by Llanelli RFC, ruling that there was no case to answer.

Quinnell was forced to end his professional rugby career after the serious eye injury sustained in the game against Cross Keys in October 2010.

The son of ex-Wales and British Lions player Derek Quinnell and brother of ex-internationals Scott and Craig had surgery immediately after the game but doctors were unable to save his eye. He continues to receive medical treatment under a specialist at the Heath Hospital in Cardiff.

Quinnell had recently re-signed with the Scarlets, having spent two years at Worcester and two years at Italian Super 10 side Viadana. He was playing for Llanelli in the Welsh Premiership and under contract with the Scarlets rugby region at the time of the incident.

“We are all astonished and deeply-shocked by the decision that has been reached,” read the statement.

“Naturally Gavin and his family are devastated by this stark verdict and have requested that they are given some time and space to let a very disappointing outcome sink in.

“The fact is everyone involved in this case is currently so numb, that we are not in a position to make any further comment at all at this stage; neither are we able to consider fully what course of action to take next.

“The family wish to express their thanks again to all those who have shown them great support throughout this very challenging and difficult time.”