Andrew Fifita: NRL prop in induced coma after fracturing larynx

[josie andrews]

Andrew Fifita took a blow to the throat while playing for Cronulla Sharks against Newcastle Knights on Sunday; the 32-year-old prop later experienced problems breathing and was taken to hospital, where doctors sedated him; Fifita will have surgery on Tuesday

Former Australia international Andrew Fifita has been placed in an induced coma and will have surgery later on Tuesday after fracturing his larynx in a NRL match at the weekend.

The 32-year-old prop, whose twin brother David plays for Wakefield Trinity, took a blow to the throat while playing for Cronulla Sharks against Newcastle Knights on Sunday and later experienced problems breathing.

Fifita was treated by paramedics at the ground before being taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, where doctors sedated him.

The Sharks can inform that Andrew has suffered a laryngeal fracture and is currently in an induced coma," Cronulla said in a statement.

"Andrew is in a stable condition, with a surgical correction scheduled to take place [on Tuesday] afternoon.

He is receiving the best possible care and all going well, it is expected he will recover in hospital for an extended period."

David Fifita issued a statement on social media on behalf of the family.

"I would like to thank everyone for their support, concern and kind words during this difficult time that we face," he wrote.

"As a family we ask everyone to please respect our privacy and allow Andrew and everyone the space to heal and recover

https://www.skysports.com/rugby-league/ ... ing-larynx