Pakistani-origin cricketer Junaid Zafar Khan dies on the field in 41.7 degree heat while observing fast

Junaid Zafar Khan, a cricketer in Adelaide, collapsed and died on the field amid a heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C. Despite paramedics’ efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Old Concordians Cricket Club expressed deep sorrow over his passing. The incident occurred during a match played under extreme heat conditions in South Australia.
Pakistani-origin cricketer Junaid Zafar Khan dies on the field in 41.7 degree heat while observing fast
General view of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan. (AP)
A tragic incident occurred during a cricket match in Adelaide when Pakistani-origin Australian cricketer Junaid Zafar Khan collapsed and died on the field amid extreme heat conditions.
The incident took place at Concordia College Oval on Saturday around 4pm ACDT during a match between Old Concordians and Prince Alfred Old Collegians. Despite immediate medical attention from paramedics, Khan could not be revived.
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The weather conditions were severe with temperatures exceeding 40°C at the time of the incident. According to Adelaide Turf Cricket Association bylaws, matches must be cancelled at 42°C, though modified playing conditions are permitted for temperatures up to 40°C.
As per local media, though Junaid was fasting during Ramadan, he had been consuming water all day, as exemptions permit Muslims to do so when not feeling well.
The Old Concordians Cricket Club issued a formal statement regarding the tragedy: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of a valued member of the Old Concordians' Cricket Club, who tragically suffered a medical episode while playing on the Concordia College oval today. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly did not survive. Thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time."
Khan, who was in his 40s, had moved to Adelaide from Pakistan in 2013 to pursue a career in the tech industry.
His friend and cricket teammate Hasan Anjum remembered him fondly: "It's a huge loss, he was destined for very big things in his life."
Another close friend, Najam Hassan, described Khan as a "gem of a person."
The incident occurred during a severe heatwave affecting South Australia and other regions, with temperatures approaching 40°C in Sydney and Victoria.

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