Sri Lankan coach dies after altercation with young cricketers

Veteran Sri Lankan cricket coach Sumith Fernando has died after an altercation with young players at a cricket facility in Colombo, reportedly following a dispute over drinking water.

Fernando, 62, was injured during the incident on August 8 and died on Tuesday while undergoing treatment in hospital. A 17-year-old player has been arrested in connection with the incident, with police investigating the circumstances surrounding the altercation.

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Fernando was a respected coach and school mentor who worked with several young cricketers during his career, including current Sri Lanka ODI captain Kusal Mendis during his formative years.

The incident reportedly began when players sought drinking water during a training session and escalated into a physical confrontation. Fernando subsequently suffered injuries and was taken to hospital, where he later died.

The arrest of the teenage player has added to the shock surrounding the incident, which has drawn attention to discipline and safety at youth cricket facilities in Sri Lanka.