WELSH rugby player Gavin Quinnell has permanently lost the sight in his left eye following an incident during Llanelli’s Premiership game against Cross Keys.

The Scarlets, in a statement issued jointly with the Quinnell family, confirmed the 26-year-old had received the news following consultation with a team of ophthalmic specialists at Newport’s Royal Gwent Hospital.

Quinnell is the brother of former Wales international forwards Scott and Craig Quinnell, and son of ex-Wales and Lions number eight Derek Quinnell.

The Scarlets also stated the matter is now in the hands of Gwent Police, who are investigating an allegation of assault.

Quinnell was hurt during last Saturday’s match, and subsequently underwent eye surgery.

The Scarlets and Llanelli RFC lodged a formal citing complaint with the Welsh Rugby Union this week, which is currently being dealt with through the WRU’s disciplinary processes.

The statement read: ‘‘The news was confirmed to him following a consultation with a team of ophthalmic specialists at the hospital.

“Naturally, the Quinnell family are all shocked and devastated and have asked to be given time and space to come to terms with the news and allow them to concentrate on giving Gavin their full support and attention.”