Lahore: Young Pakistani cricketer Zubair Ahmed passed away after being hit by a bouncer on the head during a club match in Mardan on the 14th of August, when the country was celebrating it’s Independence Day.
The Pakistan Cricket Board took to Twitter to break the news.
They tweeted, “Tragic death of Zubair Ahmed is another reminder that safety gear i.e. helmet must be worn at all times. Our sympathies with Zubair’s family.”
Ahmed had represented List A and T20 team Quetta Bears in four matches.
Former Australian cricketer and commentator Dean Jones tweeted, “Its so sad to hear.. Young Cricketer Zubair died in Mardan after Cricket ball hit on head during Cricket match. Condolences to his family.”
Earlier, Australian opening batsman David Warner had to walk off the field after being hit by a bouncer bowled by Josh Hazelwood. Although he got back up instantly, the Australian vice-captain walked off the field shortly after Hazelwood and Steve Smith rushed to check on him.
This tragic news of Zubair’s death rekindles the memories of the untimely demise of Australian southpaw Phil Hughes three years back during a Sheffield Sheild match after he was hit by a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott. Phil had collapsed to the ground and never gained consciousness. Two days later, he breathed his last in the hospital.
Zubair thus joins of the list of cricketers whose careers were cut short by the game itself which include the likes of Indian international Raman Lamba, Bengal batsman Ankit Kesari and South African Darryn Randall.
SportsCrunch prays for the peace of his departed soul.