The RFU Championship rugby union match between Ampthill and Hartpury was abandoned on Saturday after the referee, Alex Thomas, was struck by the ball.

Thomas, who has officiated games in the men’s and women’s Premierships, was hit by a clearing kick from Hartpury’s Harry Bazalgette in the 28th minute of the game in Bedfordshire.

The referee was treated on the field before being taken off on a stretcher to supportive applause from the crowd, with the game called off a few minutes later.

The Gloucestershire side Hartpury kicked off fifth in the second-tier table, and led their hosts 14-0 after tries from Ethan Hunt and Aristot Benz-Salomon, who scored shortly before the incident involving Thomas.

An Ampthill statement said: “Our thoughts are with Alex for a swift recovery. We appreciate that the decision is disappointing for supporters who have travelled to the game, but our priority is the health of the players and match officials.”

The club, who sit eighth in the Championship, confirmed the fixture will be rearranged in due course, and all original tickets will be valid for the rematch. Championship Rugby are yet to comment on Saturday’s abandonment.

Elsewhere, Ealing Trailfinders went top of the second-tier table after thrashing Cambridge 95-7, as the former leaders, Coventry, lost 46-14 at Cornish Pirates. Doncaster won 22-0 at home to the bottom club, Caldy.