Islamabad, Mar 17 2025: Pakistani-born cricketer Junaid Zafar Khan lost his life after collapsing on the field during a match in extreme heat at Concordia College Oval, South Australia.
According to reports from Australian media, the 40-year-old represented the Old Concordia Cricket Club in a match played under sweltering conditions.
Junaid Zafar Khan had fielded for 40 overs and batted for around seven overs before suddenly collapsing. The temperature at the time had soared to 41.7°C (107°F).
Emergency services were immediately alerted, and paramedics performed CPR at the scene. However, despite their efforts, they were unable to save him.
His club expressed deep grief over the loss, noting that medical responders did everything possible, but Khan could not be revived. Fellow players were left devastated by the tragedy.
The incident has sparked concerns about heat safety measures in amateur sports. Under Adelaide Turf Cricket Association rules, matches are canceled if temperatures exceed 42°C.
Additional precautions are required when the temperature surpasses 40°C, but since the recorded temperature was just below the cancellation mark, the match continued.
Experts emphasize the dangers of heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can become fatal if not managed properly.
The tragedy has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations to protect athletes playing in extreme weather conditions.
