During their T20 World Cup Super 8 match against Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Indian cricketers paid a poignant tribute by wearing black armbands. This gesture was in honor of former Indian fast bowler David Johnson, who tragically passed away in Bengaluru at the age of 52.
David Johnson, renowned for his brief yet memorable stint with the Indian team, played two Test matches in 1996, securing three wickets. His sudden demise has deeply saddened the cricketing community.
According to officials from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), Johnson passed away after falling from the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment. Despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Johnson leaves behind his wife and two children. Recently, he had been managing a cricket academy but had been in declining health. A KSCA official informed PTI, “We received information that he fell from the fourth floor of his apartment building. He was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately, he could not be revived.”
Johnson played a pivotal role in Karnataka’s formidable bowling lineup during the 1990s, alongside legends like Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath, Venkatesh Prasad, and Dodda Ganesh.
In their match against Afghanistan, Indian captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat first at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. Making a strategic change, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav replaced right-arm seamer Mohammed Siraj in the playing XI.
India had entered the Super 8 stage with an impeccable record, having won all three group stage matches against Ireland, Pakistan, and the USA in Group A. However, their final group match against Canada was abandoned due to rain.