Jonny Hill, second line international Englishsees his return to rugby delayed due to an ongoing police investigation. The player is accused of having an altercation with a Bath fan after last season’s semi-final, and is still awaiting a decision from the authorities.
An altercation at the end of the semi-final
Last June, after the semi-final of the Premiership between Bath and the Sale SharksJonny Hill allegedly clashed with a Bath supporter. Hill reportedly put the fan in a head keydamaging his glasses in the process. The supporter was celebrating Bath’s 31-23 victory in front of the Sale players’ bench.
The two clubs, Bath Rugby et Sale Sharkshave launched an internal investigation, but this is now suspended pending the conclusions of the police.
A return delayed by police leave
According to Alex Sandersoncoach of Sale SharksJonny Hill’s return is delayed due to delays in the police investigation. He said the officer handling the case is currently on leave, which is slowing down the process.
“We’re doing everything we can to speed things up, but at this point it’s out of our control,” Sanderson said in an interview with CityAM. The club has also mobilized a team of lawyers to follow the case, but the situation remains complex.
An absence that weighs on the start of the season
For the Sale Sharksthe prolonged absence of Jonny Hill is a blow as the season of Premiership is in full swing. The club must prepare to face Gloucester without one of their defensive pillars. Jonny Hill, who had a solid season last year for both club and country, is missing in a pivotal period for Sale.
Delays in the legal process leave the club and player in limbo, hoping that a quick resolution will allow them to turn the page and focus on the season ahead.
I grew up in a family where rugby was at all times. I was at the edge of the pitch when Castres beat Pau and joined the elite, I was in the Stade Pierre Antoine facing Gary Whetton when he did his Haka to celebrate the 1993 Brennus and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
