Former Zimbabwean cricketer Guy Whittall found himself in a harrowing ordeal as he was attacked by a leopard while trekking in a conservancy in the Humani region.
The ex-all-rounder, renowned for his contributions to Zimbabwe's cricketing history, sustained serious injuries in the encounter and underwent emergency surgery at Milton Park Hospital in Harare.
Whittall, who represented Zimbabwe in 46 Tests and 147 ODIs between 1993 and 2003, was accompanied by his loyal dog, Chikara, during the trek. Reports indicate that both Whittall and Chikara sustained injuries during the encounter, with the faithful canine bravely attempting to intervene to save his owner.
This incident marks another chapter in Whittall's extraordinary encounters with wildlife, recalling a chilling incident from 11 years ago when he discovered an eight-foot Nile crocodile beneath his bed. Now, the former cricketer finds himself grappling with the aftermath of a vicious leopard attack, with his injuries requiring immediate medical attention.
Hannah Stooks-Whittall, Guy Whittall's wife, provided updates on his condition via social media, expressing gratitude for the swift response of medical personnel and the outpouring of well-wishes from supporters.
Despite the severity of the situation, Stooks-Whittall emphasized the resilience and courage displayed by both her husband and their loyal canine companion.
Whittall's cricketing career is marked by notable achievements, including a memorable century in 1995 that helped Zimbabwe secure their first-ever victory against Pakistan.
While his on-field exploits have left an indelible mark on Zimbabwean cricket, Whittall's recent encounter with wildlife serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the resilience required to navigate its challenges.
