In a deeply saddening incident that shook the local cricketing community, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) umpire Prasad Malgonkar, 60, collapsed and passed away during a Bhama Cup Under-19 match between KRP XI CC and Crescent CC at Cross Maidan’s Sunder Cricket Club pitch on Tuesday. Malgonkar had just taken his position at square leg for the 11th over when tragedy struck, two balls into the over.
Speaking to Mid-Day, Fellow umpire Parthamesh Angane, visibly shocked, recalled: “He was not feeling well, and had complained of acidity before the toss. I told him to take rest if needed, but he said he was fine. He managed the first 10 overs well, but at 10.2 overs, he suddenly collapsed and was struggling to breathe.”
Immediate efforts were made to rush him to Bombay Hospital. Datta Mithbavkar, the MCA coordinator present at the venue, coordinated the emergency response. “We tried our best to take him to the hospital as quickly as possible. With help from Ibrahim sir and players like Salman Khan, Barun Saw and Pravin bhai, we carried him on a charpai from the Sunder CC pitch to the nearby National CC, and from there got a taxi to Bombay Hospital. But I think he passed away before we could reach,” said Mithbavkar.
Doctors at Bombay Hospital confirmed that Malgonkar was brought in with undetectable blood pressure and oxygen levels. “When an ECG was attempted, the screen showed flat lines. His pupils were dilated. He was brought in dead,” stated the doctor on duty at the casualty ward.The hospital further confirmed that no postmortem was conducted, as the family obtained a death certificate from their family physician. Surendra Harmalkar, MCA Apex Council member and Umpires Committee coordinator, expressed deep sorrow. “It’s unfortunate that Malgonkar passed away while performing his duties. I was at the hospital with his family. The MCA will discuss the matter in the Apex Council and explore ways to support his family financially.”