Barely one year had passed since the passing of Phillip Hughes, when the cricket world was rocked by the untimely death of another player – Raymond van Schoor, Namibia’s wicketkeeper batsman.
Van Schoor – a veteran in his team, having represented his country on more than 200 outings – died at 25, the same age as Hughes when he passed.
Van Schoor was batting for his country against Free State, when he asked for water after feeling the strain of the sweltering, summer conditions.
“He took a sip or two and the next moment he stumbled over,” said teammate Nicolaas Scholtz. “I caught him in my arms.”
He was transported to hospital where scans showed he had suffered a stroke, which many previously took as dehydration.
On Friday, Cricket Namibia confirmed his passing, with their president releasing a statement:
“It is with deep regret and sorrow that I announce the passing of Raymond van Schoor at 19h17 Namibian time on Friday the 20th November 2015,” said Cricket Namibia president Richard Frankle. “On behalf of Cricket Namibia, I express my most sincere condolences to the entire Van Schoor and La Cock families.
“Raymond was a tremendous asset to Cricket Namibia and the national cricket team.
“He was taken far too early from us. We however accept that Almighty God needed him to represent the Heavenly Angels! May his soul rest in peace!”
Cricketers took Twitter to extend their condolences and sympathies.
Van Schoor had recently played the Intercontinental Cup against Ireland, and was a pivotal part of Namibia’s T20 World Cup qualifiers campaign.
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