Topley's painful England experience (From Gazette)

Topley's painful England experience

10:29am Tuesday 2nd June 2009 in

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Essex youngster Reece Topley was hospitalised after being floored by a shot from England hero Kevin Pietersen.

The 15-year-old Colchester and East Essex bowler had been called up to help the national side prepare for this month’s Twenty20 World Cup.

Events took a dramatic twist during yesterday’s net session, though, when Pietersen advanced down the wicket to strike a full toss – and accidentally smashed the ball into Topley’s ear. He was treated by ECB medics and then taken to hospital in Loughborough, before being transferred to Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Although the extent of the injury was not known at the time of going to press, medical staff were worried about damage to the teenager’s ear drum.

Topley’s dad, former Essex star Don, told the Gazette: “Kevin hits the ball very hard – harder than anyone in world cricket – and it was probably travelling at around 100mph.

“I saw it happen and it was very worrying.

“The ball hit Reece’s left ear and he was left in a fair bit of shock, pain and discomfort. He fell to the floor and there was a lot of blood.

“Kevin had just run down the wicket to hit a full toss.

“I’ve only seen an injury like that a couple of times but I’m a realist and know these things happen.

“Kevin was very upset and concerned afterwards and has promised to give Reece one of his bats.”