The Dark Side of Cricket: 6 Cricketers Who Died on the Field

Cricket popularly known as the “Gentlemen’s Game” originated in England during the early 19th century. It is not only an incredibly popular but one of the most dangerous sports as well. It is played with a cork ball which is capable of causing severe injuries. While cricket has provided numerous entertaining, joyful, and emotional moments, there have also been some unfortunate incidents in its history. In this article, we will explore the tragic stories of ten cricketers who lost their lives while playing the game.

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1. Phillip Hughes (1988-2014)

Phillip Hughes, a talented top-order batsman from Australia, had represented his country in 51 international matches. Tragically, at the young age of 25, he lost his life while playing cricket. It happened during a Sheffield Shield match between South Australia and New South Wales on November 25, 2014. While batting, Hughes was struck by a ball on his neck, which proved to be fatal. He was hit by a bouncer from Sean Abbott when he was on a score of 63. Despite wearing a helmet, the impact landed just below his ear, causing him to collapse on the pitch. Immediately, he was rushed to St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney, where he underwent surgery and was put into a medically induced coma. Unfortunately, two days later, just three days before his birthday, Hughes passed away.

2. Raman Lamba (1960-1998)

In 1998, Raman Lamba, a talented Indian cricketer highly regarded by experts, tragically lost his life in a devastating incident in Dhaka. He had represented India in four Test matches and 32 ODIs. While participating in the Dhaka Premier League that same year, Lamba was struck forcefully on the head while fielding at the short leg position. This unfortunate blow resulted in a severe brain hemorrhage, causing him to fall into a coma for the following three days. Despite efforts made by a neurosurgeon brought in from Delhi, Lamba could not be saved, and after being on a ventilator for three days, he was pronounced dead.

3. Abdul Aziz (1941-1959)

Abdul Aziz, a 17-year-old wicket-keeper and opening batter from Karachi, Pakistan, was a promising cricket player. He represented Karachi in the Quaid-e-Azam trophy. Unfortunately, during the final match of the tournament, tragedy struck. Abdul Aziz was struck on the heart by a slow off-break bowled by Dildar Awan. The impact caused him to collapse on the ground, and despite immediate medical attention, he passed away while being transported to the hospital. It is suspected that the blow worsened an underlying heart condition that had not been previously diagnosed.

4. Darryn Randall (1980-2013)

Darryn Randall, a talented cricketer hailing from South Africa, tragically lost his life in 2013 at the young age of 32. The unfortunate incident occurred during a match in Alice, Eastern Cape. While attempting to pull a bouncer, he was struck on the head, leading to immediate and fatal consequences. His untimely demise shook the cricketing community and served as a solemn reminder of the risks associated with the game.

5. Ian Folley (1963-1993)

Ian Folley, a talented cricketer from Lancashire, was known for his skills as a right-handed batsman and left-arm bowler. He had the ability to bowl both seam and spin. Unfortunately, during a match against Workington in 1993, Folley was struck by a ball underneath his eye, resulting in a serious injury. He was swiftly rushed to the hospital, where he underwent a minor operation to treat his injured eyeball. However, while under anesthesia, an unexpected and devastating turn of events occurred—Folley suffered a heart attack.

6. Raymond Van Schoor (1990-2015)

Raymond Van Schoor, a talented cricketer from Namibia, held the distinction of being the most capped player for his country, having represented Namibia in more than 200 matches. He was known for his skills as a right-handed batsman and also served as a part-time wicketkeeper. However, tragedy struck on November 15, 2015, during a match against Free State when Raymond suffered a heart attack. He was immediately taken to the hospital, but unfortunately, his condition worsened, and he passed away on November 25. The cricket community mourned the loss of this remarkable player, whose dedication and contributions to the sport will always be remembered.

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