Punjab fast bowler Amanpreet Gill dies at 36; tributes pour in

Former Punjab cricketer Amanpreet Singh Gill passed away on Wednesday, May 6, at the age of 36, sending shockwaves through the cricket community.

Amanpreet, who made his name in domestic cricket for Punjab, was known as an energetic and dedicated fast bowler. He also wore the India jersey during the 2007 Under-19 Tri-Series in Sri Lanka, where he played alongside talents such as Virat Kohli and Manish Pandey. In that tournament, Amanpreet claimed nine wickets across five matches and proved especially important in the final against Bangladesh, producing a match-winning spell.

After news of his death broke, former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh posted a heartfelt tribute on X, recalling their early days together. Yuvraj wrote that they had shared the dressing room in the beginning, describing Amanpreet as a calm, committed professional who genuinely loved the sport. He extended condolences to Amanpreet’s family and loved ones and added a prayer for peace.

Born in Chandigarh in September 1989, Amanpreet earned recognition through his domestic performances before earning an opportunity in the Indian Premier League with Kings XI Punjab, which is now known as Punjab Kings. Following his retirement from playing, he continued contributing to cricket by working with Punjab’s senior selection committee, helping identify and nurture young players in the state.

The Punjab Cricket Association also expressed its condolences, highlighting his commitment to the game both during his playing days and in his later work. His last rites were scheduled to be held at the Manimajra Cremation Ground in Chandigarh later on the same day. No official cause of death has been revealed, and the wider cricket fraternity has chosen to honour his life and the impact he made on the sport.