The Karnataka cricket community is mourning the sudden death of former first-class cricketer SL Akshay. The tragic incident occurred when the former fast bowler suffered a heart attack during a local cricket match, leaving players, officials and fans in shock.
The 39-year-old cricketer from Shivamogga collapsed while playing a third-division league match at KR Puram in Bengaluru on Sunday afternoon. Reports say that SL Akshay complained of chest pain and discomfort while fielding, following which he was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors later declared him brought dead.
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Terrible Terrible News – Dodda Ganesh Mourns Former Ranji Trophy player SL Akshay
Former Indian cricketer Dodda Ganesh Expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of former Karnataka fast bowler SL Akshay. Ganesh shared an emotional message on social media and remembered Akshay from his early cricket days in Karnataka.
“Terrible news for the cricket community. 39-year-old fast bowler SL Akshay, whom I had watched closely since his Under-19 days, passed away today while playing a division match. I have no words to express my grief. A soft-spoken boy, who played with good success for Karnataka in 2011/12, is no more. RIP Akshay.”
Terrible news for the cricket community. 39-year-old fast bowler SL Akshay, whom I had watched closely since his Under-19 days, passed away today while playing a division match.
I simply have no words to express my grief. A soft-spoken man who played for Karnataka in 2011/12… pic.twitter.com/AgX34j4GPw
— Dodda Ganesh दौड़ गानेश (@doddaganesha) 24 May 2026
Unwavering passion and dedication – KSCA pays tribute to SL Akshay
Karnataka State Cricket Association issued an official statement paying tribute to SL Akshay. The association lauded his contribution to Karnataka cricket and highlighted his work as a coach after retirement, where he helped develop youngsters player Throughout the state.
“Akshay represented Karnataka with distinction at the first-class level and continued to serve the game with unwavering passion and dedication, even beyond his playing career. As a junior-level coach, he played a vital role in nurturing and guiding young cricketers, making a lasting impact on the development of cricket talent in the state.”
SL Akshay represented Ranji Trophy team Karnataka in domestic cricket. He also played in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20, formerly known as Karnataka Premier LeagueAnd remained actively involved in regional cricket after retirement.
SL Akshay’s tragic death raises fresh concerns over sudden cardiac arrest among athletes
The tragic death of SL Akshay has once again raised concerns about sudden cardiac arrest among athletes. Medical experts warn that being physically fit does not always guarantee protection from hidden heart conditions during intense sporting activity.
Doctors say many active people may carry unknown cardiovascular risks for years without showing symptoms. These risks may include blocked arteries, genetic heart conditions, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, inflammation and insulin resistance.
Other potential risks include irregular heart rhythm, overtraining, and prolonged sleep deprivation. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping properly due to an electrical failure, often leading to immediate collapse.
Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by blocked blood flow, cardiac arrest is associated with a failure of the heart’s electrical system. Experts note that intense physical activity can sometimes trigger dangerous heart rhythm problems in people with previously undiagnosed heart conditions.
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