Star commentator Mark Howard is blasted as his words come back to haunt him after cricket player’s death during match played in heatwave
Broadcasters Mark Howard and Stephen Quartermain have been criticised by some on social media for comments the pair made in February regarding a cricket match that was called off due to extreme heat.
It came after a man in his 40s tragically passed away on Saturda, after he collapsed during a cricket match at Concordia College Oval in South Australia.
Junaid Zafar Khan could not be revived after he collapsed on the cricket field while playing for Old Concordians’ Cricket Club.
The game took place during this weekend’s heat wave, with temperatures topping 41.7 degrees.
News Corp reported that Khan had fielded 40 overs and had batted seven overs before paramedics were called to the ground.
A friend of the cricketer told News Corp that Khan had been observing Ramadan but had been drinking water throughout the day. Muslims observing Ramadan can drink water during daylight hours should they feel ill.
His cricket club subsequently released a statement following his tragic passing.
Mark Howard (pictured) has been criticised by X users after he made comments in February in which he disagreed with the postponement of a cricket match due to hot weather
Junaid Zafar Khan (pictured) tragically passed away during a cricket match this weekend
Khan had been playing for Old Concordians’ Cricket Club when temperatures had topped 41.7 degrees
‘We are deeply saddened by the passing of a member of the Old Concordians’ Cricket club, who tragically suffered a medical episode while playing on the Concordia College oval today,’ it read.
‘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.’
Following the news, one fan took to social media to criticise comments made by Howard and Quartermain back in February.
The Fox Cricket commentator had appeared to question why local cricket matches had been called off due to hot weather.
‘Local cricket called off down my way as the league thinks it’s too hot to play a summer sport,’ Howard wrote on X.
‘What world are we actually living in? Maybe a few extra drinks breaks? A little more zinc perhaps? Thoughts?’
Quartermain, who works for 10 News First, replied to the post, writing: ‘Soft as. Very disappointing.’
Howard had criticised the decision to postpone local cricket matches in February due to hot weather
TV Broadcaster Stephen Quartermain had replied to Howard’s post, writing ‘Soft as’
One fan took to social media to criticise their comments in February, noting this weekend’s tragic news
But one social media user appeared to criticise the comments by the TV broadcasters.
‘Hew Howie, just wanted an update on this?’ the X user wrote, posting an image of a headline of the news that Khan had passed away.
‘Got thoughts? How about you Stephen Quartermain? What was it you said in the replies? “Soft as”?
‘F***ing idiots.’
According to Adelaide Turf Cricket Association rules, matches are cancelled should the temperature climb above 42 degrees.
According to that guidance, matches can continue if temperatures reach 40 degrees, but special measures are advised such as regular rehydration breaks.
Tributes have been paid to Khan, with one friend stating: ”[He] always liked to have a laugh, he always had something to say to cheer people up,’ Hasan Anjum said.
‘He was an extremely smart, sharp and savvy man. He just enjoyed helping people.
‘It’s a huge loss, he was destined for very big things in his life.’
