Manifold Heights Cricket Club apologises to Bell Park scorer who was allegedly verbally abused by two players

A Geelong cricket club has apologised for its role in an incident which led to an elderly volunteer being taken to hospital

Two incidents occurred in games between Manifold Heights and Bell Park on December 16. Picture: Mark Wilson.

Manifold Heights Cricket Club has apologised for its role in an incident at a GCA3 second division match on Saturday which led to an elderly scorer being taken to hospital for a suspected medical condition.

This publication revealed two second grade Manifold players allegedly verbally abused the scorer during their match against Bell Park at Hamlyn Park on Saturday.

The Geelong Cricket Association’s match review panel is continuing to probe the incident.

In a statement on Wednesday, the club said it was “extremely disappointed” with what occurred during the match.

“Our committee, players and members would like to extend their sincere apologies to Bell Park volunteer for any remarks (which) were directed at her personally whilst performing her role on the day,” the club said.

A Bell Park batter was allegedly abused during a GCA3 first grade match by a Manifold Heights opponent. Picture: Mark Wilson.

“We would also like to extend our apology to the Bell Park Cricket Club and their members.

“Everyone is genuinely concerned about the health and wellbeing to the Bell Park scorer, we hope she is feeling better and recovering well.

“Our thoughts and best wishes are with her and her family and our hope for a quick recovery.

“As we are all aware volunteers are the lifeblood of all sporting clubs as such, deserve to be treated with the upmost respect and gratitude for the work they do to support respective clubs throughout a playing season.”

The club said it was committed to its “continuous improvement” of club standards and expectations around player behaviour, both on and off the field.

“The Manifold Heights Cricket Club understand the impact of the value volunteers have, the valuable contributions they make,” the club said.

Originally published as Manifold Heights Cricket Club apologises to Bell Park scorer who was allegedly verbally abused by two players