Junaid Zafar Khan, a Pakistan-origin cricketer, tragically collapsed and died while playing a match in Adelaide amid extreme heat conditions. According to a report by news.com.au, the incident occurred during a cricket match between Prince Alfred Old Collegians and Old Concordians at Concordia College. Junaid, who was representing Old Concordians, collapsed in the evening while batting and could not be revived despite the best efforts of the doctors. Junaid was in his early 40s and had moved to Australia from Pakistan in 2013 to work in the tech sector. On the day of the match, he had fielded for 40 overs in the scorching sun, with a temperature close to 42°C. He was unbeaten on 16 when he suddenly collapsed. His club, Old Collegians, released a statement on Saturday confirming his passing. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of a valued member of the Old Concordians’ Cricket Club, who tragically suffered a medical episode while playing on the Concordia College oval today. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly did not survive. Thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time,” the statement read. Junaid Khan’s tragic death sparks player safety concerns The Bureau of Meteorology reported that temperatures exceeded 40°C during that weekend, as South Australia faced a severe heatwave. According to Adelaide Turf Cricket Association bylaws, matches must be cancelled if temperatures exceed 42°C. However, games can proceed under special conditions when the temperature is below 40°C. Junaid was also fasting for Ramadan, though he had consumed water throughout the day, as exemptions allow for hydration under health concerns. His sudden passing has raised concerns over player safety in extreme weather conditions. Notably, during Ramadan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) adjusted the schedule of the President's Cup first-class tournament to accommodate fasting players. Matches were played under floodlights, with playing hours from 7:30 PM to 2:30 AM, including breaks in between.