Old Concordians cricketer collapses, dies midgame at Concordia College

“Special playing conditions” were in force during a cricket game played in extreme heat in which a player died.

Concordia College. Picture: Matt Loxton

A South Australian cricketer has died on the pitch during Saturday’s sweltering heat, despite attempts to revive him.

The Old Concordians LO5 player in his 40s was playing against Prince Alfred Old Collegians at Concordia College when he collapsed during the game.

Ambulance crews were called to the Highgate grounds about 4pm and conducted CPR but were unable to revive him.

A South Australian cricketer has died on the pitch at Concordia College Oval.

Concordia College and the Old Concordians’ Association released a statement saying the player suffered a medical episode.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of a valued member of the Old Concordians’ Cricket Club, who tragically suffered a medical episode while playing on the Concordia College oval today,” the statement said.

“Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly did not survive.

“We are grateful that our College Pastor was present to offer care and support. Thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.”

According to the Adelaide Turf Cricket Association bylaws, all games must be cancelled if the weather exceeds 42C. 

However, games can continue in weather up to 40C, but “special playing conditions”, including extra tea breaks, are introduced.

The game, which started at 12.30pm on Saturday, was played during extreme heat, with temperatures peaking at 41.7C about 3.30pm.

The weather for the Highgate had been predicted to reach 38C - nearly 4 degrees lower than what was actually reached.

The cricketer’s death comes the same day a woman was hospitalised with heatstroke after suffering a medical episode while climbing on the roof of Adelaide Oval.

Emergency services took the 60-year-old woman to the Royal Adelaide Hospital.

Prince Alfred Old Collegians did not provide a comment.

Originally published as Old Concordians cricketer collapses, dies midgame at Concordia College