Sri Lanka cricket coach Sumith Fernando dies after player altercation

Sumith Fernando, a 62-year-old cricket coach, has died following an altercation with players during a match in Colombo. The dispute, which reportedly began over drinking water on August 8, resulted in Fernando being hospitalized; he passed away on Tuesday while receiving treatment.

Police have arrested a 17-year-old school player on suspicion of assaulting Fernando. The teenager was placed under child probation custody following a court appearance in Colombo.

Fernando was a prominent figure in Sri Lankan school cricket, having served as a coach at Prince of Wales College in Moratuwa. He was known for mentoring several high-level players, including former national ODI captain Kusal Mendis. He also served as the curator for the Bloomfield Cricket & Athletic Club.