Fabian Allen robbed at gunpoint on the sidelines of SA20
West Indian cricketer Fabian Allen recently endured a terrifying incident of being mugged at gunpoint in Johannesburg.
The 28-year-old all-rounder, hailing from Jamaica and representing the Paarl Royals franchise in the SA20 league, was targeted outside the team hotel, leaving him deeply shaken.
The assailants, armed with a firearm, confronted Allen near the renowned Sandton Sun Hotel, forcefully seizing his phone and personal belongings, including a bag.
This alarming incident has sparked concerns regarding the safety of players participating in the SA20 tournament.
The mugging occurred in Johannesburg during the early hours of January 25.
Multiple sources connected to the Paarl Royals team, SA20, and Cricket West Indies (CWI) have verified the incident.
A CWI source acknowledged the situation, confirming that Allen emerged unharmed.
Furthermore, a representative from the West Indies board expressed relief after making contact with the player.
“Our head coach Andre Coley, who also hails from Jamaica, reached out to Fabian.
Contact was successfully established through Obed McCoy (another West Indies international).
He is fine.
CSA (Cricket South Africa) and his team, Paarl Royals, could share more details if there are any,” disclosed a high-ranking CWI official to Cricpulse.
This occurrence represents the second security-related episode involving SA20 players in recent times.
The league, now in its second season and at the playoffs stage, has garnered attention for all the wrong reasons.
Paarl Royals are set to play the Eliminator on February 7, with the final scheduled for February 10.
Paarl Royals reassure Allen’s well-being
The franchise swiftly responded to the incident by providing additional security measures to the player.
“Following the incident, the player was provided with the necessary support by the franchise and the league, and was keen to continue his participation at the SA20, and has since been available for selection (twice also featuring in the playing XI for the Royals),” the Royals franchise, associated with the Rajasthan Royals side in the Indian Premier League (IPL), affirmed in a statement.
“Following a media report surrounding an isolated incident with, Paarl Royals would like to state that the West Indian all-rounder is safe, and enjoying his time at the SA20 as he, along with his teammates and support staff, prepares for the all-important Eliminator on Wednesday.
“The franchise works closely with the league to ensure the safety and well-being of its players and staff, while also allowing them to have free personal time as well,” emphasized the Royals’ statement.
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