Former Karnataka Ranji cricketer S L Akshay passed away on Sunday, reportedly after suffering a heart attack while taking part in a local division match in Bengaluru. The 39-year-old, hailing from Shivamogga, had previously represented Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy and also played in the Karnataka Premier League, which is now known as the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20.
Akshay’s reported final moments
- Akshay was involved in a third-division game at a ground in KR Puram.
- During fielding in the afternoon, he suddenly complained of chest pain.
- He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital.
- Doctors declared that he had arrived dead.
Akshay’s death sent shockwaves through the Karnataka cricket community, with several former players and officials expressing their condolences. Former India cricketer Dodda Ganesh posted a heartfelt message on X, describing the news as devastating. Ganesh wrote that he had seen Akshay closely since his U19 days and noted that Akshay, a fast bowler, had died while playing a division match. He also remembered Akshay as a soft-spoken individual who had represented Karnataka in 2011/12 with “decent success,” adding that he had no words to express his grief and concluding with “RIP Akshay.”
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) also released a tribute to Akshay, highlighting his contribution beyond his playing career. In its statement, the KSCA said Akshay represented Karnataka with distinction at first-class level and continued to support the sport with the same commitment even after hanging up his boots. The association further added that, as a junior-level coach, he played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring young cricketers, leaving a lasting mark on the development of talent in the state.
