Catrakilis suffers broken bone in throat

Cape Town - English club Harlequins have confirmed that South African flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis fractured a bone in his throat during an Aviva Premiership match at the weekend.

Catrakilis, who was making his home debut for Harlequins against Gloucester, required oxygen after taking a shoulder to the throat in the 13th minute.

Following lengthy medical treatment, the 28-year-old was taken off the field on a stretcher while receiving oxygen before being taken to hospital.

Harlequins director of rugby John Kingston said afterwards that Catrakilis had stopped breathing for a few seconds.

Harlequins on Monday released a statement regarding the player’s condition:

“Harlequins flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis remains in hospital after sustaining a small fracture to a bone in his throat during the match against Gloucester Rugby on Saturday. The fracture does not require surgery and Harlequins will provide a further update when available.”

Harlequins won the game 28-17.

Catrakilis recently joined the English club after spending two years at French club Montpellier.

He previously represented the Stormers and the Southern Kings.