Indian expat dies after collapsing during cricket match in Dubai

Muscat: A 38-year-old Indian expatriate died after suddenly collapsing while playing a routine cricket match in Dubai, leaving family, friends and the local community in shock.

Mohammed Safwan Shanu, originally from Bhatkal in Karnataka, had been living in the UAE for nearly 15 years. The incident occurred on Sunday morning at around 7:10am while he was batting during a weekly cricket game with friends.

According to teammates, Safwan suddenly lost consciousness on the field. Players immediately rushed to assist him, performed CPR and called emergency services. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors later declared him dead on arrival.

Friends said there were no signs of any health issues before the incident. On Saturday evening, Safwan had spent time with friends at Dubai's Waterfront Market, purchasing fish and groceries as part of his usual weekend routine.

"We play cricket every Sunday morning, and this has been our routine for years," said close friend. "The evening before, we went shopping together, and the next morning we travelled to the ground in the same car. Everything seemed completely normal."

Safwan moved to Dubai about 15 years ago and initially worked for a private company before launching his own business. He is survived by his wife and four children, including a daughter who was born just four months ago.

A passionate cricketer, Safwan was a familiar figure in Dubai's community cricket circuit. He captained several teams and earned numerous player-of-the-match and tournament awards over the years.

Community leader Muniri Atiqur Rahman, who had known Safwan since childhood, described him as a respected and well-liked member of the community whose impact extended beyond the cricket field.

Following his death, relatives worked to secure UAE visas for Safwan's parents, who wished to travel from India to attend their son's funeral. Family members coordinated the required documentation and travel arrangements to ensure they could be present for the final rites.

Friends said cricket had been a lifelong passion for Safwan, from his childhood in Bhatkal to his years in Dubai, where he became known for both his sporting achievements and his warm personality.