Pakistan-origin cricketer passes away while playing in extreme heat in Adelaide

A local cricket match between Old Concordians' Cricket Club and Prince Alfred Old Collegians ended in tragedy after a Pakistan-origin cricketer, Junaid Zafar Khan, tragically passed away during the game. According to a report by The Free Press Journal, the match was being played with the temperature levels hitting 41.7°C on Saturday, March 15.

The deceased, going by the name of Junaid Zafar Khan, unfortunately, collapsed while batting in the second innings of the game. Junaid was representing Old Concordians' Cricket Club. After fielding for 40 overs under the sun, it was Junaid's team's chance to bat. While batting unbeaten on a 16-run score, he suddenly collapsed at around 4 pm local time in Adelaide. An ambulance was promptly called to the scene of the incident. 

As per a Daily Mail report, the person was observing the festivity of Ramadan. A friend of his reported to the same news outlet that he had been drinking water throughout the day despite undertaking the holy month of fasting spanning from dawn to sunset. For the unversed, according to Islam, Muslims can drink water during daylight hours during the auspicious period of Ramadan during special instances of feeling ill. 

An official statement was released by Old Concordians' Cricket Club following the unfortunate demise of the individual. 

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of a valued member of the Old Concordians’ Cricket Club, who tragically suffered a medical episode while playing on the Concordia College Oval today. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly did not survive. Thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time,” the statement read, as quoted by The Free Press Journal.

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As per the pre-defined rules of the Adelaide Turf Cricket Association, cricket fixtures are to be called off if the mercury levels go past 42°C. Special measures like additional breaks for rehydration are to be taken if matches are being played in conditions up to 40°C.