An Auckland-born rugby player has reportedly undergone surgery in Amsterdam after a fall following a Six Nations B match.
Pacific Rugby Welfare tweeted that 32-year-old Kawa Leauma was in a critical condition after falling eight metres, saying "prayers appreciated".
Leauma - who has played for a number of Auckland clubs,including its representative sevens team - was in the Spanish squad which played the Netherlands on Sunday. He was hoping to make his official debut in the World Cup qualifying game, won 52-7 by Spain, after completing the necessary three years of residency.
The 32-year-old lock forward of Samoan heritage was apparently left out of the match-day team because of doubts over his eligibility following a change in qualification regulations.
A translated statement from the Spanish rugby federation said Leauma suffered a blow to the head and serious injuries requiring surgery, and remains under observation in an Amsterdam hospital. Another news site said he fell 6-8m and was rushed to hospital by ambulance.
