'I’ve scared my friends and family': NZ cricketer badly hurt in Spain pool accident

Author: Anna Leask,
Publish Date: Thu, 16 Jul 2026, 11:22am

Will Hamilton has been seriously injured in Spain. Photo / Supplied

Friends of a Kiwi cricketer badly injured in a pool accident in Spain are raising money for his medical costs – which may hit NZ$80,000.

Will Hamilton, from Ohoka, in North Canterbury, has been living in the UK playing for Barby Cricket Club in Northamptonshire since early 2025.

The 26-year-old was on a mid-season break in Barcelona with a friend when he was rushed to hospital after diving into a swimming pool and sustaining severe injuries.

“I’ve scared my friends and family, but all in all I’m feeling okay,” he told the Herald from his hospital bed.

“[It] has been a week to remember for sure.”

Will Hamilton, from North Canterbury, has been living and playing cricket in the UK since early 2025. Photo / Supplied

A fundraising page, set up by Barby CC, explained the incident further.

“Will was seriously injured after diving into a swimming pool that was much shallower than he had anticipated,” said a club spokesperson.

“He suffered a significant facial injury and fractured two vertebrae in his spine.

“Due to the severity of his injuries, Will is currently recovering in hospital in Barcelona after having surgery.

“This has come as a complete shock, and because the accident happened overseas, Will is now facing substantial hospital and medical costs totalling approximately €40,000.”

Hamilton is the club’s first overseas player from New Zealand.

“Since arriving, he has become much more than just a talented cricketer,” the spokesperson said.

“Whether he’s helping to prepare the ground, running one-to-one coaching sessions, supporting our junior players or simply lending a hand wherever it’s needed, Will has become a valued member of our club and a great friend to so many.

“As a club, we wanted to come together and give everyone who has asked how they can help an opportunity to support Will during this incredibly difficult time.

“Every penny donated through this page will go directly towards Will’s hospital, surgery and associated medical costs, helping to ease the financial burden so he can focus on his recovery.”

So far, more than $10,000 has been donated.

The club thanked those who had contributed for their “kindness, generosity and support”.

“Any donation, big or small, and every share is hugely appreciated,” the club said in a Facebook post.

“Thank you for supporting one of our own.”

If you want to donate to the fundraising page, click here.