Authorities said a 19-year old left-handed batsman was killed on Thursday after being struck in the neck by a ball during a state sponsored cricket match at Nanil area of south Kashmir's Anantnag district.
Officials said the cricket tournament is being organized by the Government’s Youth Services and Sports Department in the area.
The incident occurred when the match was being played between Budgam and Baramulla.
Director General (DG) Youth Services and Sports Department Saleem-Ur-Rehman said the batsman suffered injuries while missing a pull shot and fell unconscious
“The ball hit him between his neck and head despite being equipped with all protective gears including helmet,” Rehman said.
He identified the cricketer as Jehangir Ahmad War, 19, son of Farooq Ahmed War, of Goshbugh Pattan in Baramulla.
The DG said War was immediately evacuated to health facility Mattan where doctors declared him brought dead on arrival. Jehangir was studying in class 11th at Government Higher Secondary School Goshbugh Pattan, Baramulla.
Meanwhile, Administrative Secretary Youth Services and Sports Department Sarmad Hafeez termed the incident as unfortunate and sad incident. He all possible help and assistance would be extended to the bereaved family.
Meanwhile, Governor Satya Pal Malik has expressed grief and shock over the unfortunate death of the young cricketer in Anantnag district.
“In a condolence message, Governor has conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed for peace to the departed soul. Governor has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased,” an official spokesperson said.