Former Indian Cricketer David Johnson Dies at 52, Tributes Pour in

New Delhi: Former Indian and Karnataka Ranji cricketer David Johnson committed suicide on Thursday. Sources told Republic World that Johnson took the extreme step due to depression.  However, several reports claimed that Johnson died after falling from the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment. After receiving the information, Kothanur police visited the spot and took his body to Crescent Hospital. Johnson, who played two Tests for India, was 52 and is survived by his wife and two children.

David Johnson Commits Suicide: Tributes Pour In

As soon as news of Johnson's passing broke, social media was flooded with messages of tribute. Expressing grief over Johnson's untimely demise, former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble said,"Saddened to hear the passing of my cricketing colleague David Johnson. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Gone too soon “ Benny”!   

BCCI secretary Jay Shah too extended his condolences to the bereaved family. "Deepest condolences to family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contributions to the game will always be remembered," Shah wrote on X.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir, who was recently interviewed for the post of India men's team's head coach, also shared his emotions. "Saddened by the passing away of David Johnson. May god give strength to his family and loved ones," Gambhir wrote on X.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of my former teammate, David Johnson. He was full of life and never gave up on the field. My thoughts are with his friends and family,” Sachin Tendulkar wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) also condoled the death of its former cricketer who played 39 First-Class and 33 List A matches, taking 125 and 41 wickets respectively. “The big-hearted Johnson will be surely missed and his passing away is a great loss for Karnataka and Indian cricket,” the KSCA said in a statement.

“The president, members of the managing committee, executive committee and all the staff of KSCA offers condolences to his family, near and dear ones,” it added.

Who is David Johnson?

David Johnson, born on October 16, 1971, was a former Indian cricketer known for his brief international career as a fast bowler. He played in two Test matches for India in 1996, making his debut against Australia. Despite his promising start and notable pace, he struggled with consistency and fitness, which limited his opportunities at the international level. 

Johnson continued to play domestic cricket for Karnataka, where he had more success and contributed significantly to his team's bowling attack. After retiring from playing, he was involved in coaching and mentoring young cricketers.    

This is a breaking story, more details are awaited.