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.