Hampshire Young cricketer Van der Gucht breaks legs in car accident

Charles Van der Gucht Photo © Hampshire County Cricket Club

Hampshire's slow left arm spinner Charles Van der Gucht, who was seen by many as an excellent prospect, was badly injured after being run over by a taxi on Twickenham Bridge, London on Friday evening.

Having spent the evening with friends from university, Charlie crossed the dual carriageway and was run over. He has sustained two broken legs, and after treatment in the West Middlesex University Hospital, Isleworth, will have a re-alignment operation in about ten days.

David Newman, the Hampshire physiotherapist who visited him in hospital, said today at the Hampshire Rose Bowl, during the county's match with the touring Australians: "It will need a long rehabilitation progress for Charlie, but he is a young determined boy, who will be keen to get back to full fitness."

Van der Gucht's family are flying back today from their holiday in the USA.

Director of Cricket, Tim Tremlett issued a statement, saying:

"Everybody at the club was shocked and saddened to hear of Charlie's terrible accident. Charlie is a very popular member of the playing staff and we all wish him a full and speedy recovery whilst appreciating that it is going to be a long and often painful process before he is on his feet again.

"I am confident that Charlie's strength of character and the encouragement and support that he will receive from family and friends will be invaluable at this difficult time.

"Charlie was having another successful season, again impressing many knowledgable judges with his slow left arm spin bowling. He has youth on his side and hopefully he can return even stronger as he has such an important part to play in Hampshire's future."