Published: Jun 10, 2016, 12:09 AM (IST)
Edited: Jun 10, 2016, 12:09 AM (IST)
Hampshire cricketer Hamza Ali has passed away at a young age of 20, according to a joint statement from Hampshire and MCC. It is believed that he fell into the River Avon on Wednesday afternoon. Ali made his First-Class debut for Hampshire against Cardiff MCCU in April earlier this year. In his first and only match for Hampshire, Ali picked up a couple of wickets in the match. He was rated by many as one of the best upcoming talents in the country. He has also played numerous matches for MCC Young Cricketers. Ali’s sudden demise has left a lot of people shocked.
Charlie Freeston, who is the head of player development at Hampshire said, “We are shocked and saddened to hear the news – Hamza had formed a very important part of the 2nd XI team since making his debut against Kent last season,” according to espncricinfo.
“He was an incredibly committed and enthusiastic cricketer who always gave 100% for the team that he was playing for. His impressive performances on the field quickly proved he could be part of Hampshire’s future. On behalf of myself, his coaches and all that played with Hamza, we would like to send our deepest condolences to his incredibly supportive family and friends at this difficult time.”
MCC Head Coach Steve Kirby said that all at MCC were devastated to hear this tragic news. “Everyone at MCC is devastated and saddened to hear the tragic news of Hamza Ali’s death,” Steve Kirby, the MCC head coach, said. “He greatly impressed us with his energy, enthusiasm and exceptional all-round talent. He starred with both bat and ball in helping the YCs to win their first game of the 2nd XI championship this season, against Sussex last week, with 44 and 2 for 39 in the first innings.
“In the short time he was with the squad, he made quite an impact on all of us, on and off the field, with his friendly, positive outlook. It was very clear to me from the start that Hamza’s indomitable spirit, ambition and desire to be a professional cricketer was there in abundance – he was never beaten. On behalf of MCC and all our Young Cricketers, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Hamza’s family at this very sad time.”
There were many, including West Indies T20I skipper Darren Sammy, who took to Twitter to express their condolences.
Just last week we were all together having a #selfie now you’re gone.#RIP young #HamzaAli Condolences to his family pic.twitter.com/0tfDUavYja
— Darren Sammy (@darrensammy88) June 9, 2016
We are sorry to hear of the death of Hamza Ali who played for @hantscricket v @CardiffMCCU in April. Thoughts with his family & friends.
— The PCA (@PCA) June 9, 2016
Our deepest sympathies go out to the family & friends of Hamza Ali & to @DownendCricket & @StapletonCC following today’s tragic news
— Gloucestershire CCC (@Gloscricket) June 9, 2016
A reminder that the Hampshire players will be wearing black armbands tonight v @surreycricket as a mark of respect to Hamza Ali. #T20Blast
— Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) June 9, 2016
We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Hamza Ali.
Statement: https://t.co/Ez6fhxtBmk pic.twitter.com/KI7SBiXltf— Hampshire Cricket (@hantscricket) June 9, 2016
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All Hampshire players will be wearing a black armband during their game against Surrey in the NatWest T20 Blast as a mark of respect to Ali.
