Cricket: Abu Dhabi curator Mohan Singh found dead before T20 World Cup

The chief curator of Sheikh Zayed Stadium in the United Arab Emirates died an hour before New Zealand’s T20 World Cup match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday night (NZT).

Late last night, there were reports that Mohan Singh had been found dead in his room that morning.

Abu Dhabi Cricket later confirmed in a statement: “Abu Dhabi Cricket announces with great sadness that Chief Curator Mohan Singh is dead today.

“Mohan has worked at Abu Dhabi Cricket for 15 years and has played a key role in the success of the entire venue during that time.

“The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 12 match played on Sunday between New Zealand and Afghanistan progressed as planned with the support of Mohan’s family and staff. Tributes to Mohan and his incredible achievements will be honored in the days to come.

“Our thoughts are with the Mohan family and we ask the media to respect their privacy during this tragic time.”

Police are said to be investigating the cause of death, which is still unknown.

An ICC spokesman said: “We are deeply saddened and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, Abu Dhabi Cricket and everyone involved in the event.”

This year, Sheikh Zayed Stadium is successfully hosting matches in the Indian Premier League, Pakistan Super League and T20 World Cup.

Cricbuzz said Singh had prepared the gate for Sunday’s match between New Zealand and Afghanistan, which kicked off hours after his body was found.

Singh previously worked as a field supervisor at Mohal’s Punjab Cricket Stadium.

Former BCCI chief curator Daljit Singh told PTI: “He was a skilled child when he came to me. A very talented and hardworking person. He came from Garhwal and I also remember him as a family man. When he went to the UAE, he came to visit every time when he was on the ground, but I hadn’t seen him in a while. Gone too early and it’s really tragic. “

New Zealand beat Afghanistan by eight doors and secured their place in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup, knocking out India.