Gold Coast cricket community pays tribute to Chris Connell who died this week

The Gold Coast cricket community is in mourning after the sudden death of one of the sport’s most popular figures. He’s being remembered as a “friend” and a “true leader”.

THE Gold Coast cricket community has paid tribute to Surfers Paradise Cricket Club member Chris Connell who died this week.

Connell died on Tuesday at the age of 43 in a tragic loss to the club, his family and wider cricket community.

Surfers Paradise Cricket Club paid respect to the man who, up until the recently, was on their executive committee.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of our champion Chris Connell,” the statement on Facebook read.

Chris Connell (bottom row, far left) with members of the Surfers Paradise Cricket Club. Picture: Taken from Facebook.

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“We have not only lost a friend, player, coach and teammate but a true leader.

“Chris will be remembered as someone who built up and inspired others and really lit up our club.

“Chris touched hearts wherever he went. His passing is a huge loss to our cricketing community. Chris you will never be forgotten

“Our deepest condolences to Sarah, Ebonee, Jayden, Bill and family.”

The Facebook post was met with a flood of tributes from those in and outside of the club.

“Always the first to high five and put an arm around you. Gave everyone else his all. RIP Chrisso. You’ll be missed mate,” Marcus Tickle said.

Dave Johnson said: “So sad to hear this news. From a Umpires point of view a real gentleman of the game. A life lost far too soon.

“On behalf of the Umpires Association our condolences to Chris’s family and the Surfers Paradise Cricket Club. Rest in peace Chris.”

Dean Goostrey added: “Terribly nice guy. A huge passion for the game and his club. He supported all players at every level from all teams. He is a real loss as a role model for young men.”