Former Hull FC man and Challenge Cup winner on life support due to Covid-19 complications

The pandemic has hit us all hard for a number of reasons. Whether causing people to struggle with their mental health, financial issues or even something as simple as missing the activities previously so engrained in our lives like watching our favourite teams play.

But at its heart, Covid-19 is still a dangerous virus which has sadly caused hundreds of thousands of casualties in this country alone.

It’s important to remember that especially now that former Hull FC man and New Zealand international Frank Pritchard is in Hospital this New Year’s Eve fighting for his life.

Known as ‘Frank The Tank’ down under, the big forward joined Hull FC in 2016 and helped end their Wembley hoodoo delivering the Challenge Cup trophy in a 12-10 win over Warrington in the capital.

However, he is now on life support due to complications caused by Covid-19. It is believed that he has major health issues as a result of the virus including a collapsed lung.

The 38-year-old made 27 appearances for his country and was even a member of their World Cup winning squad in 2008. Having played for Penrith, Canterbury and Parramatta, his career has endeared him to people all across Australia and especially in Hull and he’ll be in the thoughts and prayers of plenty of people across the rugby league community.

Hull FC have posted a tribute to Pritchard this morning imploring him to “keep fight.”

Thinking of you and your family, Frank – keep fighting. ❤ pic.twitter.com/RsL2Bf6ZKQ

— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) December 31, 2021