An 11-year-old boy lost his life when he was struck by a ball while playing cricket with friends in the Lohegaon area of Pune on Thursday. The victim, Shaurya Kalidas Khandve, harboured dreams of pursuing a career in wrestling according to his relatives.
The incident took place around 9 pm on May 2 at the Jagatguru Sport Academy Ground in Lohegaon. Shaurya, who was fondly called Shambhu by his friends and family members, is survived by his parents and an elder brother. A case of accidental death was registered in the case on May 4 at Vimantal police station.
“Initial information suggests that Shaurya had gone to play cricket with friends on the Jagatguru Sport Academy Ground that has night playing facilities. Shaurya was bowling and when the batsman hit the ball, it struck Shaurya on his private parts and he collapsed to the ground due to the impact. He was rushed to a private hospital nearby where he was pronounced dead by the doctors.” said an officer from Vimantal police station.
Assistant Inspector Sachin Dhamane, who is investigating the case said, “We have registered a case of accidental death and a probe has been launched. We will be examining the autopsy report and will be speaking to the players on the ground.”
Shaurya’s relative Rameshwar Poul said, “Shaurya was a sixth grader who took a lot of interest in sports and had a large circle of friends.” Poul said.
Shaurya’s uncle Bandu Khandave said, “We are a joint family of over 40 members. In Shaurya’s unfortunate passing, we have lost a bright young boy. He aspired to become a wrestler and had started training hard for it. This incident highlights the need to take all the safety precautions while playing.”
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