In a tragic incident, 35-year-old cricketer Imran Patel collapsed and died during a cricket match at Garware Stadium in Pune on Wednesday, November 27. The match, between Lucky Builders and Young XI, was being televised live, and the entire ordeal was caught on camera.
Sudden Collapse During the Game
Imran Patel, a professional cricketer known for his all-round skills, was playing for Lucky Builders and opened the batting for his team. During the sixth over, after hitting a boundary, Imran complained of severe chest pain on the left side.
Attempting to manage the discomfort, he removed his gloves and rubbed his chest. Despite the pain, he tried to continue but ultimately informed the umpires and opposition captain about his condition. Throughout this time, he was seen shaking his left arm, suspecting a muscle injury.
As Imran decided to leave the field, he suddenly collapsed while walking back. Teammates and opposition players rushed to assist him, but the situation quickly escalated. He was rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
A young man, Imran Sikandar Patel, died of a #heartattack while playing cricket in the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district of Maharashtra.https://t.co/aCciWMuz8Y pic.twitter.com/pwybSRKSsa
— Dee (@DeeEternalOpt) November 28, 2024
No History of Medical Conditions
According to fellow cricketer Naseer Khan, Imran had no known history of medical issues. “He was in good physical condition. In fact, he was an all-rounder who loved the game. We’re all still in shock,” Khan said.
A Life Cut Short
Imran Patel was a multifaceted individual, owning a cricket team, running a real estate business, and operating a juice shop. He leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and three daughters, the youngest of whom is just four months old.
Hundreds of mourners gathered near Maulana Azad College for his last rites, a testament to his impact on the local community.
A Similar Tragedy
Imran’s untimely death bears a haunting similarity to that of Habib Shaikh, another cricketer who died of a cardiac arrest during a match in Pune on September 7. Unlike Imran, Habib had a history of diabetes.
A Heartbreaking Loss
Imran Patel’s sudden death has left the cricketing community and his loved ones in shock. His passion for the game and vibrant personality will be deeply missed by all who knew him.