Two local cricket clubs, Sully Centurions and Barry Athletic, said they were “devastated” after Maqsood Anwar, playing for Sully at home last Saturday, collapsed and died.
He had joined the club just three weeks ago, and was playing for Sully First XI. The game was abandoned as a mark of respect, as was the Sully Second team game.
A club statement said: “The club is deeply saddened by the tragic events of the day and is liaising closely with the family and those members who witnessed events to ensure that appropriate support is offered.
“Maqsood was indeed a true gentleman of the sport, a fine cricketer and a wonderful family man who we were proud to call a member of our club.”
Barry Athletic Cricket Club said: “We at BACC are devastated at the news that Maqsood, who played for us for over 15 years, has sadly passed away playing for his new club.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Max’s family. We are all in shock. The world has lost a true gentleman. RIP Max.”
A friend, Simon Philips, posted on Twitter: “Devastated that my good friend Max passed away at cricket. A really nice guy who always had time for you. You were a brilliant team mate and I’ll miss you. Thoughts are with your family. RIP Max xxx”
However, the Sully Centurions statement also addressed some “inaccurate reporting” of the tragic events.
The statement noted that, from the moment an ambulance was called, a qualified first aider from the club was in direct contact with the ambulance service and followed instructions. At the point when the professionals advised the use of a defibrillator, an NHS paramedic arrived as a result of the 999 call and took over.
The statement added that a community defibrillator was available 100 yards from the pitch, but the prompt arrival of the paramedic had meant there was no need. However, recognising that time is always of the essence, the club said they would be taking steps to install their own, and urged other clubs to consider similar action.
A go fund me page has been established in honour of Maqsood. More than £3,400 has already been raised. This will seek to fund two defibrillators, one at Burnham Avenue and one at Barry Athletic Cricket Club. It can be found at: https://gofund.me/742ab5a2 or by clicking on the GoFund photograph on the right.
The news led Andrew RT Davies MS to call for more defibrillators to be installed at sports grounds. He said: “Maqsood’s tragic passing is sadly another reminder that we need more defibrillators installed at sports grounds across Wales to help save lives.
“There is cross party consensus in the Senedd on this issue, but we must move now to get it done.”
The full club statement can be read below.
