While on one hand the 2-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka is starting from 15th August, on the other hand an incident has come to light from Sri Lanka which has surprised everyone in the cricket world. Actually, 62-year-old cricket coach Sumit Fernando died after a clash with players in a cricket club in Colombo. Fernando was admitted to the Colombo National Hospital after the incident on August 8, where he died during treatment on August 10.
Sumit Fernando, former coach of Prince of Wales College, Moratuwa, had trained many cricketers including Sri Lankan ODI team captain Kusal Mendis. The police have arrested a 17-year-old school cricketer in connection with his death.
Know the whole matter in 7 points
1. According to preliminary police investigation, the incident took place at the Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club in Colombo. A group of cricketers taking training there had gone to the tap to drink water, but there was no water in the tap. After this an argument started between the players and Fernando working in the club. Within no time the dispute turned into a clash.
2. According to the police, during the clash, Fernando tried to attack a player. After this the 17-year-old player allegedly hit Fernando. After the incident, Fernando’s health deteriorated and he was immediately taken to Colombo National Hospital. Despite treatment in the hospital, he died on 10 August.
3. While investigating the incident, the police arrested a 17-year-old school cricketer on Monday. He was produced before the Colombo Magistrate Court on 11 August. The court has ordered to keep the minor under the supervision of the Probation and Child Care Services Department till August 17. Further legal action in the case is expected based on the findings of the investigation.
4. The investigation into the cause of Fernando’s death has not been completed yet. Medical records revealed that he was already suffering from heart disease. For this reason, the authorities conducted a post-mortem to find out whether his death was due to injuries sustained during the clash or due to some other problem.
5. According to local media reports, the Judicial Medical Officer has reportedly given an open verdict in the case. This means that the exact cause of death has not been immediately determined. Fernando’s samples have been sent to a government analyst for further testing. The results of these investigations can play an important role in understanding the real circumstances of the case.
6. Moratuwa resident Sumit Fernando had a long association with Sri Lankan cricket. He had served as a cricket coach at Prince of Wales College and trained many young cricketers. Under his guidance, many prominent school cricketers including Sri Lankan national ODI captain Kusal Mendis learned the nuances of cricket.
7. Sumit Fernando was not limited to coaching only. He also served as the curator of the Bloomfield Cricket and Athletic Club. He had an important place in the local cricket community due to his long association with the cricket ground and young players.