Former Karnataka Ranji cricketer SL Akshay died on Sunday after reportedly suffering a heart attack while playing a local division cricket match in Bengaluru. He was 39.
Akshay, a fast bowler from Shivamogga, had represented Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy and also played in the Karnataka Premier League, now known as the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20.
Cricketer collapsed during local match
According to reports, Akshay was playing a third-division cricket match at a ground in KR Puram when he suddenly complained of chest pain while fielding during the afternoon session.
He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors reportedly declared him brought dead.
The sudden demise of the former cricketer shocked the Karnataka cricket fraternity, with players, coaches, and officials expressing grief over the incident.
Tributes pour in from cricket community
Former India cricketer Dodda Ganesh shared an emotional tribute on social media, recalling Akshay’s journey from his Under-19 cricket days.
He described Akshay as a soft-spoken player who represented Karnataka with dedication and achieved respectable success during the 2011–12 domestic season.
The Karnataka State Cricket Association also paid tribute to Akshay and highlighted his contribution as a mentor and coach after his playing career.
Remembered for mentoring young players
In its statement, the KSCA said Akshay continued to serve cricket with passion even after retiring from competitive cricket.
The association noted that he played a significant role in nurturing young cricketers as a junior-level coach and contributed greatly to the development of cricket talent in Karnataka.
His sudden death has left the state cricket community deeply saddened