Headbutt sparks wild brawl in Cricket Latrobe Valley cricket match

Cricket Latrobe Valley will launch an investigation into the wild scenes that unfolded as a brawl broke out in their A-grade match at Traralgon on Saturday. SEE THE VIDEO INSIDE.

Cricketers in Gippsland face lengthy bans after a brawl erupted during an A-grade game on Saturday.

The incident — which was captured on a livestream — occurred during the Cricket Latrobe match between Rovers and Gormandale at Duncan Cameron Memorial Park in Traralgon.

Footage shows the bowler and a batsman coming together in the 43rd over, with the Rovers score on 4-92.

After an exchange of words at the nonstriker’s end, the bowler appears to headbutt the batsman, setting off wild scenes.

Other players become involved and the batsman is thrown to the ground.

A wild brawl erupted during a club cricket match in Latrobe Valley on Saturday.

After the players were separated, the game continued, with Rovers going to reach 8-143 in reply to 79.

Cricket Latrobe president Brad Howlett said on Sunday morning: “We are aware of the incident that took place yesterday between Rovers Cricket Club and Gormandale Cricket Club.

“Our league is built on principles of respect and fair play and sportsmanship and we don’t condone any behaviour that goes against these values.

“There was a match official in place. He’s done his report and we will review the report and follow further steps past that.’’

Somehow, the match continued after the fight.

Gormandale Cricket Club said in a statement: “As a club we want to emphasise that there is no place for such incidents in cricket. Our sport has always been — and should always be — a safe and inclusive environment for everyone who participates in the game.

“We acknowledge that this is a sensitive issue for many involved, and out of respect for those affected we will not be making any further comments at this time. We kindly remind the community that there are real people involved who are still processing what occurred. We ask for kindness as our volunteers work diligently to support everyone affected.

“The Gormandale Cricket Club firmly believes in the spirit of cricket. When this spirit is compromised, it is our responsibility to do everything we can to restore it.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to those in the community who have reached out in support during this time.’’

Rovers Cricket Club president Bryan Grant said: “The matter is under investigation by Cricket Latrobe Valley.’’

His club later released a statement saying it did not condone violence in sport.

Originally published as Headbutt sparks wild brawl in Cricket Latrobe Valley cricket match