Junaid Khan Dies in Adelaide Cricket Match
The incident has sparked a conversation about heat safety protocols in amateur sports, with many calling for more stringent measures to protect players from extreme temperatures. As the community mourns the loss of Junaid Khan, there is a growing emphasis on ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future.
Pakistani-origin Australian cricketer Junaid Zafar Khan tragically died during a match in Adelaide due to extreme heat, collapsing on the field at Concordia College Oval while playing for Old Concordians against Prince Alfred Old Collegians on March 16, 2025.
The incident occurred amid a severe heatwave affecting South Australia, with temperatures reaching 41.7°C during the match. Khan, in his 40s, had spent 40 overs fielding and 7 overs batting before collapsing, and despite paramedics' efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Friends and fellow players remembered Khan as a kind and generous person who had moved to Adelaide from Pakistan in 2013.
The match was played in sweltering conditions, and while Khan had been fasting, he was seen drinking water on the day of the match. The official cause of death has not been determined, but the incident raises concerns over heat safety protocols in amateur sports, as the match continued despite temperatures being just below the cancellation threshold.
The cricketing community is in shock over Khan's passing, and his death serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing player safety, particularly in extreme weather conditions. As the investigation into the incident continues, tributes are pouring in for Junaid Zafar Khan, a talented cricketer and a beloved member of the community.