‘Victim’ living in fear of cricket re-match bat accused plays on

Alex de Vos
A Geelong cricketer has won an all-clear to play for the rest of season despite allegations he hit a rival over the head with a bat, according to authorities.
Torquay Cricket Club’s David Muir has accused the player of hitting him after a game with North Shore turned sour.
Mr Muir, his team’s wicket-keeper, said he was shocked and disappointed Geelong Cricket Association had delayed its inquiry until the end of a police investigation.
He urged the sporting body to fast-track proceedings and stop waiting for a court ruling before taking action.
“The association has made a decision not to act or do anything and I don’t agree with it,” he said.
“Torquay will be scheduled to play North Shore at some point and I think it’s in everyone’s best interests that the matter is dealt with in a timely fashion.”
Mr Muir said he heard a “loud clunk” during the match on November 14 before an opponent allegedly grabbed him around the throat.
“We (Torquay) were celebrating, I yelled out ‘Yes’ and ran up to our bowler to congratulate him,” Mr Muir said.
“All of a sudden, as he was walking off, this (batsman) swung his cricket bat right at me from behind and hit me on the back of the head.
“Then he grabbed me around the throat and wanted to keep (fighting).”
Mr Muir said he had experienced after-affects including headaches, vomiting and lethargy since the alleged assault.
The North Shore player denied hitting Mr Muir over the head with a cricket bat.
But Mr Muir rejected his explanation.
“The plot hatched after the incident to try to nullify the effects was not a true and correct statement of what has or has not occurred,” Mr Muir said.
North Shore Cricket Club president Glenn Thulburn said he would not comment on the incident until after the investigation.
“Geelong Cricket Association has sought legal action and will run its course and make a decision in due time,” he said.
Torquay Police Acting Sergeant Shane Connolly said officers were preparing to interview the North Shore player.