20-year-old fast bowler Hamza Ali passes away

Local authorities managed to rescue him from River Avon, however, he later died in hospital

Bristol-born Hamza Ali, who was recently on trial at Hampshire and also played for MCC Young Cricketers, died on Wednesday after falling into River Avon.

According to local police, the authorities were called to the river at Saltford in Somerset around 17:20 British Standard Time and although they managed to take Ali to the hospital for treatment, the 20-year-old later passed away.

MCC head coach Steve Kirby paid respects to Ali, describing him as an impressive young man who had a profound impact on his teammates.



“We would like to extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Hamza’s family at this very sad time,” he said.

“In the short time he was with the squad, he made quite an impact on all of us, on and off the field, with his friendly, positive outlook.

“Hamza greatly impressed us with his energy, enthusiasm and exceptional all-round talent.”



Similarly, West Indies cricketer Darren Sammy also paid respects to Ali via his Twitter account.

Just last week we were all together having a #selfie now you're gone.#RIP young #HamzaAli Condolences to his family pic.twitter.com/0tfDUavYja

— Daren Sammy (@darensammy88) June 9, 2016

Ali made his first-class debut for Hampshire in April against Cardiff MCCU, taking 2-59 in the match.

Hampshire players wore black armbands as a mark of respect for Ali during their T20 Blast match against Surrey at The Oval on Thursday.

This article originally appeared on BBC Sport