A British cricketer, Jamie Spence, died in a car accident in New Zealand along with another Frenchman, Raphael Jean-Gabriel Rollinger. Jamie, from Yorkshire, was 28 years old. The accident happened on April 29 near Kinleith on New Zealand’s North Island.Jamie used to play for Hill Strikers, a local cricket club who described him as one of the team’s most enthusiastic and passionate members. In a heartfelt tribute, the club, as quoted by the Daily Mail, said, “A true member of the Strikers’ family from the start, Jamie was our youngest, yet one of the most enthusiastic, fun-loving, and spirited souls on and off the field.”
He also recalled how much Jamie loved the club, saying: “His smile, his spirit and his love of the game brought life to our club.”A few days after his death, Hill Strikers still played their scheduled match against Hassel CC with only 10 players and won by seven runs. The team won in the name of Jamie.The club said the loss “leaves a void that can never be filled” and added: “He wasn’t just a player – he was one of the club’s biggest supporters, always bringing energy, passion and a smile that lifted everyone around him.”Jamie’s father, Jon, attended the game, which the club described as a special and emotional moment for everyone involved.The club concluded their tribute to their late teammate with emotional words: “This win is for you. There is no better tribute than giving everything, as you always did. You will always be a part of this team. A striker forever.”
