Akshu Fernando, former Sri Lanka Under-19 cricketer, passed away on Tuesday, nearly eight years after slipping into a coma following a railway accident. He was 25. Fernando had remained in a critical state since December 28, 2018, after being struck by a train while crossing an unprotected railway track near Mount Lavinia Beach. The incident occurred when he was returning from a team running session. He sustained severe head injuries and multiple fractures and was immediately placed on life support. Since then, he had remained under constant medical supervision, with his family continuing treatment efforts over the years. A leading Sri Lankan newspaper confirmed his death, quoting international commentator Roshan Abeysinghe. Abeysinghe said, "Just heard the sad news that Akshu Fernando has passed away. He was truly a wonderful young man whose promising career was cut short by a cruel accident. A quality player for his school and his final club Ragama. Its a sad day for all of us who knew him. A cheerful, friendly and thorough gentleman was he. We will miss you Akshu and remember you for the rest of our life. Rest in peace, sweet prince." Read also: Why Liam Livingstone Was Left Out of England’s T20 World Cup 2026 Squad Promising career cut short by tragedy Fernando was regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most promising young cricketers at the time of the accident. He represented the country at the 2010 ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand. During the tournament, he made a notable contribution in the semifinal against Australia, scoring 52 runs and finishing as Sri Lanka’s top scorer in that match. The team narrowly missed a place in the final. A product of St Peter’s College, Colombo, Fernando had an accomplished school cricket career. He captained the Under-13, Under-15, and Under-17 teams and served as vice-captain of the Under-19 side. His consistent performances and leadership led to opportunities at the domestic level, where he represented clubs such as Colts Sports Club, Panadura Sports Club, Chilaw Marians, and Ragama Sports Club. His final competitive match came shortly before the accident. On December 14, 2018, he scored an unbeaten 102 against Moors Sports Club. Fernando’s passing brings an end to a prolonged medical struggle and marks the loss of a career that showed early promise in Sri Lanka’s cricketing structure.