Melbourne Stars batting all-rounder Hilton Cartwright was cleared of any serious injury after distressing scenes saw the 32-year-old having to be stretchered off the field in the Big Bash League opener against the Perth Scorchers.
The Stars had set a modest target of 146 for the Scorchers to chase, experienced fast bowler, Jhye Richardson starred with the ball in hand, ending with figures of 3-19. Marcus Stoinis led from the front with the bat, the Stars skipper posted 37 runs, topping the scoring for his team. But young gun Cooper Connolly was too strong, leading the charge and finishing with an eventual 64 runs off 51 balls, assisted by veteran, Ashton Turner who finished with 37 runs off 27 balls.
However, the game was dampened after a concerning moment late in the match saw Hilton Cartwright being stretchered off in a medical cab. Cartwright's neck whiplashed painfully after diving at a ball in an attempt to save a boundary. Cartwright, who is large in stature, lay motionless on the turf after sliding to a stop, before being taken to hospital for further assessment.
Stars captain, Marcus Stoinis spoke of the incident saying, "He's a heartbeat of our team, but not only us, with Western Australia and the Scorchers, he's a very well-respected guy."
"It did definitely put a damper on the mood of the night."
In positive news, the Melbourne Stars put out a statement regarding the current situation, with Cartwright being cleared of any major injury.
"Hilton Cartwright has been cleared of any serious damage to his neck whilst fielding in last night's match. Cartwright underwent scans and spent overnight in hospital but has now been released and will rejoin the squad in Melbourne in the next few days," the club said in a statement." Stars had posted across social media platforms.
The Stars will head back home in a short turn around to face the Adelaide Strikers at the MCG on Wednesday.