Pakistan’s cricketing community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 24-year-old fast bowler Aleem Khan, who suffered a fatal cardiac arrest during a PCB Challenge League match in Bannu on May 5, 2025. The young pacer collapsed in the middle of his bowling run-up, prompting immediate medical attention. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Hailing from Bannu, Aleem had been steadily making a name for himself in Pakistan’s domestic cricket scene. While he had yet to break into top-tier competitions, his performances in regional leagues showcased his potential. His recent outings, as reported by CricHeroes, highlighted his talent—he took seven wickets across T20 matches and also contributed valuable lower-order runs, including a knock of 11 runs, reinforcing his ability as a bowling all-rounder.
Concerns Over Player Health And Safety
The PCB Challenge League, an initiative aimed at nurturing emerging cricketers, now faces scrutiny over medical preparedness and player health safeguards in domestic tournaments, especially in remote venues. Umpire Inamullah Khan, who witnessed the tragic incident, described how Aleem suddenly collapsed mid-bowl. Medical assistance was called immediately, but despite swift action, his life could not be saved.
Expressing sorrow, PCB Director of Domestic Cricket, Abdullah Khurram Niazi, called Aleem’s passing an irreplaceable loss for Pakistan cricket. The shocking incident has reignited discussions on the physical demands placed on athletes and the urgent need for enhanced health monitoring systems in domestic cricket to prevent similar tragedies.
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