SL Akshay death

KL Rahul's Ex-Teammate Dies in Bengaluru Ahead of IPL 2026 Playoffs

Sportsdunia Desk

Modified - May 24, 2026, 04:59 PM

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KL Rahul

KL Rahul and the Indian cricket fraternity were hit with heartbreaking news ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs after former Karnataka cricketer SL Akshay reportedly passed away due to a heart attack while playing a third-division club match for Sapphire CC in Bengaluru on Saturday.

Rahul, who represents Karnataka in domestic cricket, has reportedly shared a dressing room with Akshay during first-class matches. It has come as a heartbreaking news for the Indian cricketing fraternity.

SL Akshay Death News Rocks Indian Cricket

SL Akshay, who represented Karnataka in six first-class matches and three List A games, was part of the state’s victorious Ranji Trophy-winning squad during the 2014/15 season. He was only 39 years old.

According to reports, SL Akshay Karnataka cricketer death happened due to a heart attack while actively participating in a local third-division cricket match in Bengaluru. The former Karnataka fast bowler left the field after bowling just four overs as he complained of discomfort. He was taken to a nearby hospital but couldn't survive.

Akshay had shared the Karnataka dressing room with several current and former Indian cricketers, including KL Rahul, during their domestic cricket days. He remained involved in club cricket even after stepping away from professional cricket.

SL Akshay death news comes at a time when KL Rahul was in action for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing IPL 2026 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders. However, the Capitals are already eliminated from the tournament after another disappointing IPL season.

KSCA Pays Tribute To SL Akshay

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) paid a heartfelt tribute to SL Akshay and his contributions for the state cricket. The statement also mentioned Akshay's role as a junior-level coach in Karnataka.

“Akshay represented Karnataka with distinction at the first-class level and, even beyond his playing career, continued to serve the game with unwavering passion and dedication. As a junior-level coach, he played a pivotal role in nurturing and mentoring young cricketers, leaving an enduring impact on the development of cricketing talent in the State,” the KSCA said in a statement.

Akshay belonged to a state which is known to produce some of the best batsmen in India. This Karnataka cricketer death has come as a tragic news for the whole country. Amongst his achievements, Akshay was a part of Karnataka's Ranji Trophy-winning squad in 2014.