John Mitchell was stabbed twice during a robbery at his Hyde Park apartment in Johannesburg on Sunday.
Lions spokeswoman Krystle Geach said that Mitchell had been at home with his flat-mate and fellow coach Wayne Taylor when he heard a noise.
‘Mitch heard someone coming into the room. He thought it was Wayne, because Wayne has quite a dry sense of humour, so he tackled the guy. But it was an intruder.’
A second intruder then stabbed Mitchell in the arm and the leg, she said. The intruders then tied Mitchell up and ransacked the apartment. Taylor climbed out the window and down the drainpipe to alert police.
Geach said Mitchell was taken to hospital, but has now been released after having his wounds stitched up.
Mitchell spoke about the attempt on his life:
“I’m not feeling great, obviously, but my injuries are not too bad and I just thank God that they missed the artery in my leg when they stabbed me.
“This was a very unfortunate incident, and I wouldn’t wish it on any other person to be held hostage and woken in that manner by having an intruder in your room, feeling both your and your friends’ lives are in danger.
“The security at the complex was insufficient on Saturday night, as we have lived there safely for over three months. The security company [ADT] has a lot to answer for with what happened to us.
“Possibly the worst part of the incident was not knowing if Tails [Wayne Taylor] was ok, or if he was even alive. Tails managed to climb out the window and call the police for help. This was the best thing he could have done, and I commend his decision to escape the apartment as he did not know if they were armed.
“I went for some trauma counseling on Sunday evening which was very beneficial, and I now have a process to work through on myself. I cannot dwell on this and I need to move forward.
“I am still very committed to the Lions. This is a beautiful country and I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to work here. I won’t let this deter my commitment or passion for the team, but I need to make sure that I am totally secure in where I live, as it is not at all nice waking up and having to defend your life.
“The players have been incredibly supportive, but I’m trying to not dwell too much on what has happened. I need to find closure now and move on with my life.
“Thank you to everyone from my colleagues to the media to supporters of the Lions for their support. It has been tremendous and I do appreciate every message.â€