In a shocking development, a Sri Lankan cricket coach, Sumith Fernando, died following an altercation with players at a cricket club in Colombo. Fernando was a renowned name in the Sri Lankan coaching set-up and coached several prominent players, including Sri Lanka national ODI captain Kusal Mendis during his childhood days.

According to reports, an argument broke out between Fernando and a group of cricketers at the Bloomfield, where the Sri Lankan coach was employed. The players reportedly went near a tap for water, but found out that there was no water available, leading to a clash with Fernando. The police said that Fernando allegedly attempted to assault the player, following which the 17-year-old hit back, leading to injuries. The coach was then taken to the hospital, where he died during treatement.

The police were straight into action and arrested a 17-year-old cricketer related to the incident. He was produced before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court on August 11 and was ordered to remain under the care of the Department of Probation and Childcare Services until August 17.

According to Sri Lanka Mirror, “The suspect is a resident of Liyanagemulla, Seeduwa. According to preliminary investigations, a group of cricketers, including the suspect, who were undergoing training at the grounds, had gone to a water tap to drink water but found that no water was available.

“An argument reportedly broke out between the players and a club employee. Police said the employee had allegedly attempted to assault one of the players.”

It must, however, be noted that the circumstances around his death remain under investigation. Fernando reportedly had pre-existing heart disease as well. The authorities also conducted a post-mortem to determine whether his death was caused by injuries or due to a medical condition, with results still under examination. Fernando’s funeral was held on Thursday.