Paarl Royals have confirmed that Fabian Allen is safe after he was reportedly mugged at gunpoint in outside a hotel in Johannesburg.

The West Indies all-rounder reportedly had several items stolen outside the Sandton Sun Hotel, where he was staying with the Paarl Royals for the 2024 SA20. Cricbuzz reported the incident, following which the franchise have also issued a statement affirming that Allen is now safe.

According to the report, Allen was attacked at gunpoint by assailants who took his phone and personal belongings on the morning of January 25. Since then, Allen has appeared in the XI for the Royals in two games – both against Durban Super Giants.

The statement issued today (February 6) by Paarl Royals on the incident read: “Following a media report surrounding an isolated incident with Fabian Allen in Johannesburg in the early hours of 25th January 2024, 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.”

Royals added that Allen was provided with all the support he needed after the incident and that they are dedicated in ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

“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,” it read.

“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).”

Paarl Royals finished the group stage of the SA20 third on the points table and have an Eliminator coming up against Joburg Super Kings on February 7.

Allen has not had a productive tournament so far, scoring just 38 runs from six innings at a strike rate of 140.74 and picking two wickets at an economy of 8.87 runs per over. He has not featured in the XI in the last two league games for them.

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