It has already been eleven years since Australian cricketer Phil Hughes stunned the cricket world with his tragic and untimely death. Just three days shy of his 26th birthday, Hughes’ life came to a sudden end. On 25 November 2014, during a Sheffield Shield match at Sydney Cricket Ground, a bouncer struck him on the neck while batting, leaving him collapsed on the pitch. That moment marked the end of a promising career that could have spanned decades. His 26 Test matches and 25 One-Day Internationals became a tale of ‘what might have been,’ leaving only a profound sense of grief.
Hughes’ death was not only a shock to Australian cricket but resonated across the international cricket community. His tragedy directly influenced safety protocols, prompting the introduction of the concussion substitute rule and enhanced helmet safety standards. Today, the S.C.G honours Hughes with a bronze plaque outside the dressing room, ensuring that every visitor remembers his contribution and sacrifice.
While reflecting on Hughes’ legacy, the author recalls another cricketing figure—Raman Lamba, who tragically died on a Dhaka cricket ground. On 20 February 1998, during a Dhaka Premier Cricket League match between Abahani and Mohammedan, Lamba was fielding at forward short leg when a ball struck him on the head. Unlike Hughes, who fell instantly, Lamba survived for three days after the incident before passing away in PG Hospital.
Raman Lamba was a transformative figure in Dhaka cricket. He brought energy, charisma, and exceptional talent to the local league, drawing crowds with his batting and fielding prowess. While Hughes is immortalised with a plaque, Dhaka has yet to properly commemorate Lamba, despite his pivotal role in shaping the city’s cricket culture.
The parallel between Hughes and Lamba is striking. Both were high-profile cricketers whose lives were cut tragically short on the cricket field. Their stories remind cricket enthusiasts of the inherent dangers of the sport and the sacrifices made by players for the love of the game.