The cricketing community in Mizoram and across India is in mourning following the tragic and sudden death of former state cricketer K. Lalremruata. The 38-year-old passed away on Thursday after collapsing during a local cricket match.
A Tragic Collapse on the Field
K. Lalremruata, a resident of Maubawk near Aizawl, was actively playing for the Venghnuai Raiders Cricket Club (VRCC) when the incident occurred. The match was part of the second division screening tournament for the Khaled Memorial, being held at the Suaka cricket ground near Sairang railway station.
According to officials from the Cricket Association of Mizoram (CAM), Lalremruata suffered a stroke while the game was in progress. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed for treatment, he could not be saved.
A Career in Service of Mizoram Cricket
Lalremruata was a dedicated servant of the game in the northeastern state. He represented Mizoram twice in the prestigious Ranji Trophy and featured in seven Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches. A wicketkeeper by trade, he made his First-Class debut against Meghalaya in 2018. His last competitive appearance was in 2022 against Nagaland.
His contributions extended far beyond the domestic circuit. He was a well-known figure in Mizoram's local cricket scene, having played for several clubs. He also served on the Senior Tournament Committee, actively involved in nurturing and developing the sport at the grassroots level.
Outpouring of Grief and Condolences
The CAM confirmed the cause of death in an official statement, expressing profound sorrow and calling it a significant loss for state cricket. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family; may God comfort them as they navigate this great loss," the association said.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also paid tribute. "Deeply saddened by the passing of Mizoram cricketer K Lalremruata. He proudly represented Mizoram in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The BCCI extends heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers to his family, friends and the Mizoram cricket community," read a post from BCCI Domestic on X.
Mizoram’s Sports and Youth Services Minister, Lalnghinglova Hmar, also mourned the cricketer's untimely death.
Immediate Impact on Sporting Calendar
The shockwaves of the tragedy were felt immediately in the region's cricket schedule. As a mark of respect, the Assam Cricket Association took the decision to cancel all matches scheduled for Thursday. This included:
- Games in the 2nd Division Screening Tournament at SCG, Sihhmui.
- The 3rd Division Screening Tournament semi-finals at Lawipu Playground.
- The Samagra Inter-School Cricket Tournament for boys and girls at venues in Mualpui.
The associations stated that revised schedules for these tournaments would be announced at a later date.
