Championship club Whitehaven Rugby League have confirmed that one of their players has been hospitalised after breaking his neck while representing the club on Sunday. The Cumbrian outfit managed to end their season on a high, despite being relegated to League One, with a 23-20 win coming over Halifax Panthers.
However, the result was marred somewhat by the injury club captain James Newton picked up during the contest. Newton left the field on his feet with the help of medical staff, before being taken to hospital in an ambulance after the game for an X-ray and further examination on the injury.
Whitehaven have now confirmed that the hooker has fractured vertebrae in his neck and will be kept in hospital as he receives specialist care.
A statement read: “Whitehaven Rugby League can this morning provide an update on James Newton following leaving The Ortus Rec in an ambulance yesterday and spending the night in hospital.
“Newton has fractured vertebrae in his neck and remains in hospital at this time receiving specialist care but wanted to share this news with the brown, blue and gold army and thank all of the well wishers for their support so far.
“All of our thoughts at Whitehaven Rugby League are with our captain, his family and loved ones at this time.”
Newton is in the middle of a three-month testimonial, having spent 11 seasons with Whitehaven. He has also spent time with Workington and Hull FC during his career. At the age of 32, he has played all but one game for Whitehaven this season, racking up 25 appearances and scoring one try.
Whitehaven finished 13th in the Championship table, with their inferior points difference seeing them relegated to League One alongside Dewsbury Rams, who stunned Sheffield Eagles in their final game of the campaign. As such, the Cumbrians will be playing in the third tier of professional rugby league next time around alongside local rivals Workington Town.
