A cricket tournament in Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district ended in tragedy on Sunday when a veteran bowler collapsed and died on the field, just moments after leading his team to victory.

The match was held at the sugar mill grounds in Bilari block and was organised by the Uttar Pradesh Veterans Cricket Association. Teams from Moradabad and Sambhal were competing. Moradabad batted first and set a challenging target for Sambhal.

As Sambhal needed 14 runs from the last four balls, Ahmer Khan, a senior left-arm fast bowler from Moradabad, took charge of the final over. He bowled brilliantly, securing an 11-run win for his team. But soon after delivering the last ball, he suddenly collapsed on the pitch.

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Players rush to help

Eyewitnesses told local news outlets that Khan appeared to be struggling to breathe before sitting down and collapsing. The moment was captured on a phone camera. Players and a doctor at the venue rushed to help him and CPR was performed immediately. 

Though Khan briefly showed signs of movement, he was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

The joyful atmosphere quickly turned somber. The cheering crowd went silent, and players from both teams stood in disbelief as the news spread across the field.

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A respected figure in local cricket

Ahmar Khan, a resident of Ekta Vihar in Moradabad, was a well-known and respected player in Moradabad’s cricket circles. Loved for his passion, discipline and friendly nature, he had represented Moradabad in veterans cricket for many years.

The tournament organisers and fellow players expressed their deep sorrow. “We have lost not just a player but a beloved member of our cricket family. His contributions to veterans cricket will always be remembered,” India Today reported, quoting an organiser.