Strawbridge remains in critical condition

Chiefs assistant coach and Manu Samoa technical advisor Andrew Strawbridge. Photo / Getty

Chiefs assistant coach and Andrew Strawbridge remains in critical condition at Waikato Hospital's intensive care unit, after arriving back in New Zealand last night via air ambulance from Samoa.

Strawbridge was admitted to hospital on Tuesday night with an infection in his right eye which had deteriorated rapidly, having travelled to Samoa to act as technical adviser ahead of the All Blacks test.

Strawbridge was sedated and yesterday deemed stable enough to travel home to be treated at Waikato Hospital, with his medical flight from Apia landing at 6.15pm last night.

His family has been overwhelmed by the support that has been shown, having received hundreds of texts, Facebook messages and other communications. They have read some messages to Strawbridge but, due to being heavily sedated, only a few shared have been shared.

Chiefs executive Dallas Fisher said Strawbridge was able to get home so soon after the medical evacuation was put in place with help from authorities in New Zealand and Samoa.

"We were very pleased to have him home so he can be with his family and get further medical attention," Fisher said. "Everyone has been very concerned but he is holding up well. We're extremely thankful for what Manu Samoa and the hospital have done over there"

Chiefs head coach Dave Rennie added in a statement: "It has been a difficult time for Straws, his family and all of those who are close to him.

"It is fantastic to have him back and we appreciate all the work that has gone on to get him home by the medical staff, Manu Samoan aiga, New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs.

"There are lots of people who love and care about Straws and that has been highlighted by the huge number of messages of support we have received."

Strawbridge's wife Laura said she was "overwhelmed by the support we are continuing to receive in both Samoa and New Zealand".

She added: "The kindness shown to us, and the offers of support, has been incredible. We want to thank everyone for their much needed thoughts and kind wishes at this extremely difficult time."

There is set to be a further update on Strawbridge's condition at 8.00am tomorrow.