To date, there have been 12 fatalities linked to on-field injuries or incidents in cricket. The earliest recorded case dates back to 1870, when an English cricketer lost his life during a match.
12. Phil Hughes (Australia, 25) – In 2014
Australian batsman Phil Hughes was struck on the head by a bouncer during a Sheffield Shield match between South Australia and New South Wales. He suffered a fractured skull and significant brain bleeding, leading to surgery at a Sydney hospital. Tragically, Hughes succumbed to his injuries two days later.
11. Darryn Randall (South Africa, 32) – In 2013
South African wicketkeeper-batsman Darryn Randall was hit on the side of the head while attempting a pull shot during a domestic match. He collapsed on the field and was rushed to the hospital but unfortunately died from the injury.
10. Zulfiqar Bhatti (Pakistan, 22) – In 2013
Pakistani cricketer Zulfiqar Bhatti was struck in the chest by a ball while batting in a domestic game. He fell to the ground and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
9. Richard Beaumont (England, 33) – In 2012
Richard Beaumont collapsed on the field after suffering a suspected heart attack. He was declared dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
8. Alcwyn Jenkins (England, 72) – In 2009
English umpire Alcwyn Jenkins was officiating a league match when he was accidentally struck on the head by a ball thrown by a fielder. He could not recover from his injuries.
7. Wasim Raja (Pakistan, 54) – In 2006
6. Raman Lamba (India, 38) – In 1998
former India international Raman Lamba was hit on the head while fielding during a club match in Dhaka. He fell into a coma three days later and was pronounced dead.
5. Ian Folley (England, 30) – In 1993
Ian Folley was accidentally struck below the eye while batting in a domestic match for Derbyshire against Workington. He suffered a fatal heart attack later in the hospital.
4. Wilf Slack (England, 34) – In 1989
Wilf Slack collapsed and died during a domestic match in Banjul, Gambia. He had experienced four blackouts in previous matches, but doctors could not determine the cause of his death.
3. Abdul Aziz (Pakistan, 18) – In 1959
2. Andy Ducat (England, 56) – In 1942
Andy Ducat suffered a heart attack during a game at Lord’s, where he collapsed and died.
1. George Summers (England, 25) – In 1870
George Summers was struck on the head while batting for Nottinghamshire against the MCC at Lord’s. He neglected to seek treatment for his injury and passed away from its effects four days later.