Updated: A RUGBY union player from York was last night fighting for his life following an incident at a home game.

Tuui Redrava, 30, suffered a serious brain injury during the match between York Railway Institute and Doncaster Thornensians on Saturday afternoon and was said to be heavily sedated and “very critically ill” in Leeds General Infirmary.

His mother is being flown from Fiji to be by his bedside and the coming week was thought last night to be critical to his progress.

Club staff and players tried to assist Mr Redrava after the incident, which occurred at the York club’s pitch on New Lane, Holgate, at about 4pm.

Police are now investigating how Mr Redrava was injured and are asking every supporter who attended the match to come forward and give witness accounts.

Every player from the game is also being interviewed by police.

Mr Redrava, a back row player, had only joined the team earlier this year.

Club spokesman Nigel Lowrey said the player had served in the British Army and was popular among the players.

“Naturally they are very upset and concerned for his welfare,” he said.

A statement on the team’s website said: “The club prides itself on being a family and so the thoughts of all at Railway Institute are with him and his immediate family who are by his bedside.

“Tuui’s mother is being flown from Fiji and the club will do everything it can to make the situation easier for them.

“The Rugby Football Union has been informed of the situation and all that can be done will be done to assist the investigation. Our grateful thanks go to Sarah the physio, Caroline the club steward and players Matt and Dale, who all assisted Tuui in very difficult circumstances.

“We are hoping for a speedy recovery. The next week will be critical in his progress.”

Det Insp David Ellis, who is heading the investigation, said: “It is believed that there were a number of witnesses to the incident and I would ask them to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information is urged to phone York CID on 01904 669453. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.

After Mr Redrava was taken off the pitch, the game resumed. York RI lost the Yorkshire Three match 13-12.