The incident caused widespread concern as the New Zealand star lay on the pitch
Chiefs’ Wallace Sititi receives medical attention after a hit to the head (Image: DJ MILLS / AFP via Getty Images)
The Chiefs have provided an update on All Blacks star Wallace Sititi following his sickening head injury he sustained over the weekend.
The 23-year-old was taken to hospital following the incident in his side’s 46-24 win over Queensland Reds in their Super Rugby Pacific qualifying final.
He was involved in a heavy collision with the shoulder of Reds forward Lukhan Salakaia-Loto before bouncing into the head of his team-mate Sione Ahio.
He managed to roll onto his side before being seen shaking on the ground.
He required lengthy medical attention, with medics holding his head as he received treatment. He was eventually able to find his feet and leave the field and was taken to hospital.
His club have now updated concerned supporters on his condition.
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“Hey Chiefs fam! Thanks for all your care and love for our guy Wally,” the Chiefs’ Instagram post said.
“He wanted to let you all know he is at home and feeling good, as well as sending his thanks to everyone for their love and support.
“Scans at Waikato Hospital did not reveal any issues and he will be assessed and cared for through the concussion protocols.”
The update will come as welcome news considering how things looked in the immediate aftermath of the incident.
“The pride, the grit we showed and obviously the enjoyment of getting a result, it’s tinged,” coach Jono Gibbes told reporters after the match.
“It’s never nice to see one of our brothers in a situation like that but Wally’s where he needs to be now, with people that can help him. There’s a big part of us that are actually thinking about him right now.”
Gibbes also came to the defence of the medical team who were unable to stop Sititi from standing up during his treatment on the pitch.
“They were dealing with a player in distress. It wasn’t a case of being able to strictly follow A, B and C,” Gibbes added.
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