Bhatkal/Dubai: A 38-year-old cricketer from Bhatkal died suddenly after suffering a medical emergency while playing cricket in Dubai on Sunday, leaving the Bhatkal community in the UAE and his hometown in shock.
The deceased has been identified as Mohammed Safwan Shanu, a resident of Azad Nagar in Bhatkal and an active member of the Nawayath Colony-based social organisation YMSA.
According to sources, Safwan was playing cricket with friends during the weekly holiday when he suddenly felt unwell and sat down on the field. His companions immediately rushed to assist him and arranged for his transfer to a hospital. However, he reportedly passed away before reaching the hospital.
Safwan is survived by his wife, a four-month-old daughter and three sons. Following news of his death, his parents left for Dubai to be with the family.
According to sources, Safwan Shanu established his own business about five years ago after spending nearly eight years working for a private company. He had been living in Dubai with his wife and children and had last visited Bhatkal about a year ago to meet his parents and relatives.
Known for his friendly nature and active involvement in community activities, Safwan was also a passionate cricketer and enjoyed a wide circle of friends, particularly among the youth. News of his untimely death has saddened members of the Bhatkal diaspora across the UAE.
Friends and well-wishers gathered at the hospital after learning of the incident and offered condolences to the bereaved family.
Meanwhile, BMJ members in Dubai are coordinating the legal formalities and documentation related to the deceased. Sources said that, subject to the completion of the required procedures, Safwan is expected to be laid to rest in Dubai.