New Delhi: Former Karnataka Ranji cricketer SL Akshay On Sunday, he reportedly died of a heart attack while playing a local division cricket match in Bengaluru. The 39-year-old, who hails from Shimoga, has previously represented Karnataka. Ranji Trophy and is also involved in the Karnataka Premier League, now called the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20.According to reports, Akshay was playing a third division match at a ground in KR Puram. He suddenly complained of chest pain while fielding in the afternoon. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.Akshay’s death shocked the Karnataka cricket community, with many former players and officials expressing grief. Former India cricketer Doda Ganesh shared an emotional message on X. “Terribly terrible news for the cricket community. SL Akshay, 39, a fast bowler whom I had watched closely since his under-19 days, passed away today while playing a division match,” he wrote. “I have no words to express my grief. A soft spoken boy who played with great success for Karnataka in 2011/12 is no more. RIP Akshay.”The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) also paid tribute to Akshay and remembered his role in promoting young talent after his playing career. “Akshay represented Karnataka with distinction at the first-class level and even beyond his playing career, continued to serve the game with unwavering passion and dedication. As a coach at the junior level, he was instrumental in nurturing and guiding young cricketers, making a lasting impact on the development of state cricket,” KSCA said in a statement.
