Irish cricketer Simi Singh faces serious health crisis

Ireland all-rounder Simi Singh is facing a serious health crisis, Cricket Ireland announced on Thursday. The 37-year-old cricketer, who has been a key player for Ireland in both ODIs and T20Is, is currently dealing with life-threatening health issues.

Singh, known for his spin bowling and lower-middle-order batting, last represented Ireland at the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. His most recent competitive match was a year ago for Leinster Lightning in the Inter-Pro List A tournament.

In a statement, Cricket Ireland CEO Warren Deutrom expressed the organization's shock and concern. 

"We have received shocking news that our friend Simi Singh is currently dealing with life-threatening health circumstances. On behalf of Cricket Ireland, and indeed the wider Irish cricket community, I would like to extend our best wishes and prayers to Simi as he takes on this new fight," the statement read.

Deutrom also highlighted Singh’s significant role in Irish cricket, saying, "After moving to Ireland, Simi has become a central figure within Irish cricket - whether at international, provincial or club level - he has shown a desire and drive to succeed. We now hope that this same drive will see him come through the current circumstances."

The specific details of Singh’s illness have not been disclosed yet. 

Throughout his career, Singh has been a standout performer. He has taken 39 ODI wickets at an average of 25.92 and an economy rate of 3.99. In T20Is, he has claimed 44 wickets at an average of 27.84 with an economy of 7.61. His performance in 2021 was particularly notable, including a high score of 100 not out against South Africa in a challenging chase.