Former Karnataka Cricketer Dies On Field After Suffering Heart Attack
Former Karnataka Ranji Trophy cricketer SL Akshay died on Sunday after suffering a heart attack on the field while playing a local division cricket match in Bengaluru.
- Former Karnataka Ranji Trophy cricketer SL Akshay died after suffering a heart attack on the field
- He had earlier represented Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy and was also a part of the Karnataka Premier League
- The news of his sudden demise left many former players and officials shocked as they expressed their grief
Former Karnataka Ranji Trophy cricketer SL Akshay died on Sunday after suffering a heart attack on the field while playing a local division cricket match in Bengaluru. The 39-year-old had earlier represented Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy and was also a part of the Karnataka Premier League, now known as the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. Â The cricketer, who hailed from Shivamogga, was playing in a third-division match at a ground in KR Puram when he suddenly complained of chest pain. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. The news of his sudden demise left a number of former players and officials shocked as they expressed their grief on social media. Â
Former Indian cricket team star Dodda Ganesh shared an emotional message on X (formerly known as Twitter):
"Terrible terrible news for the cricket community. SL Akshay, 39, a fast bowler, whom I saw from close quarters from his U19 days has passed away today while playing a division match," he posted. Â
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) also expressed their grief, praising Akshay for his role in developing and mentoring young talent. Â
"Akshay represented Karnataka with distinction at the first-class level and, even beyond his playing career, continued to serve the game with unwavering passion and dedication. As a junior-level coach, he played a pivotal role in nurturing and mentoring young cricketers, leaving an enduring impact on the development of cricketing talent in the State," the KSCA said. Â
Akshay was playing for Sapphire CC against Bharat CC in a KSCA-Nassur Memorial Shield Group I, Division III match at the SSLS Kreedangana. According to reports, he bowled four overs but began feeling uncomfortable shortly after. Â
"We lost a good friend, firstly, and also a very committed coach. He was a committed player too, had the fire in the belly always and wanted to impart the same to the kids. I'm still in a state of shock. Gone too soon," KB Pawan, his former teammate and friend, said.