Pakistan-origin cricketer dies in England river tragedy

LONDON: In a tragic accident, 20 years old cricketer of Pakistani origin Hamza Shabbir died after falling into River Avon of southwestern England. Reports said Shabbir, was pulled from the river after falling into the water yesterday. The Bristol-born cricketer received emergency first aid at the scene but died in hospital in the early hours of this morning. The young all-rounder played for several years for Stapleton Cricket Club before playing last season for Downend. He was well on his way to pursuing his dream of becoming a professional cricketer, having already played Grade-A cricket in Pakistan in the past year, and playing a first-class game for Hampshire at the start of this season. Hampshire Cricket club have confirmed Hamza Ali's passing. Hamza was a very promising fast bowler, who had a reputation as the fastest bowler in the Bristol leagues. Flags were flying at half-mast at Stapleton CC this morning, and Downend's team will be wearing black armbands for their match on Saturday. - Samaa