A tragic incident struck during a youth cricket match in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, when a swarm of bees attacked players and officials, resulting in the death of a veteran umpire and injuries to several others.
The deceased umpire has been identified as Manik Gupta, aged 65, a respected figure in the Kanpur cricket community for nearly three decades. Gupta was officiating an under-13 match at a local stadium on Wednesday when a sudden swarm of bees descended onto the field, creating chaos among players, officials, and spectators.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as everyone scrambled to safety. Unfortunately, Gupta sustained severe injuries from multiple bee stings. He was initially taken to a local hospital, but as his condition deteriorated, he was transferred to a larger medical facility for advanced treatment, where doctors subsequently declared him dead.
Another umpire, Jagdish Sharma, was seriously injured in the attack but has reportedly stabilised and is out of immediate danger. Several players and officials also sustained minor injuries, some of whom required hospital care.
Gupta had been associated with the Kanpur Cricket Association for almost 30 years, officiating numerous important local and regional matches. His passing has cast a pall of grief over the Kanpur cricket community, with many recalling his dedication, professionalism, and contributions to nurturing young talent in the region.
This is not the first instance of bees disrupting cricket in India. In 2019, a one-day match between India ‘A’ and the England Lions in Thiruvananthapuram was temporarily halted due to a bee attack. Although several players were stung, no fatalities were reported.
The incident has prompted calls for greater safety precautions during outdoor matches, particularly in areas known for bee activity. Cricket officials have emphasised the need for medical preparedness and rapid evacuation procedures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Incident Summary
| Name | Age | Role | Injury / Status | Hospitalised |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manik Gupta | 65 | Umpire | Fatal bee stings | Yes |
| Jagdish Sharma | N/A | Umpire | Serious injuries | Yes |
| Multiple others | N/A | Players / Officials | Minor injuries | Some |
The loss of Manik Gupta has deeply affected the Kanpur cricket fraternity, highlighting both the unpredictable dangers of outdoor sports and the resilience of those committed to the game.