Former Punjab Kings Cricketer Amanpreet Singh Gill Passes Away at 36
A Profound Loss for the Cricket Fraternity
The cricketing world was struck by somber news on Wednesday, May 6, as reports confirmed the passing of former Punjab cricketer Amanpreet Singh Gill. At the young age of 36, the news of his untimely demise has left fans, former teammates, and the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) in a state of deep mourning. Gill, who was born in Chandigarh in September 1989, had transitioned from his playing days into an administrative role, serving as a respected member of the Punjab senior selection committee.
An Illustrious Beginning: The India U19 Days
To understand the caliber of Amanpreet Singh Gill, one must look back at his formative years. In the mid-2000s, Gill was a promising fast-bowling talent who earned his stripes in the national setup. He was a prominent member of the India Under-19 team, a squad that featured several future icons of the sport, including the legendary Virat Kohli and Manish Pandey.
One of his most notable performances came during the U19 Tri-series in Sri Lanka in July 2007. In that tournament, which also included Bangladesh, Gill proved his mettle by claiming nine wickets across five matches. His standout performance was undoubtedly the final against Bangladesh in Colombo, where he delivered a clinical spell of 2-14, helping India secure a dominant 129-run victory and lift the trophy. Those who watched him bowl during that era often spoke of his raw pace and his ability to swing the ball, traits that made him a standout prospect in the domestic circuit.
Domestic Career and IPL Journey
Following his successful stint with the U19 team, Gill transitioned to first-class cricket. Between the 2006-07 and 2008-09 Ranji Trophy seasons, he represented the Punjab cricket team in six matches. His domestic contributions were part of a broader effort to build a competitive pace attack for the state.
Gill was also part of the Punjab Kings franchise (formerly Kings XI Punjab) during the early, foundational years of the Indian Premier League. While he did not get an opportunity to break into the playing XI during that time, his presence in the squad highlighted his status as one of the most exciting young fast bowlers in the region.
Tributes Pour In
The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) was among the first to formally express its sorrow. In an official statement posted across their social media channels, the PCA wrote, “Punjab Cricket Association deeply mourns the sad demise of Amanpreet Singh Gill, former Punjab cricketer and Member, Senior Selection Committee Punjab.”
The association further extended its thoughts to his family, stating, “Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones. May Waheguru grant eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the family in this difficult time.”
A Moment of Reflection During IPL 2026
The tragedy coincides with the ongoing IPL 2026 season. As fate would have it, the news broke on the same day the Punjab Kings were scheduled to face the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. In a show of solidarity and respect for their former alumnus, it is expected that the Punjab Kings players will pay tribute by wearing black armbands during the evening fixture.
As the cricket fraternity comes to terms with this heartbreaking loss, the memory of Amanpreet Singh Gill—a dedicated professional and a spirited competitor—remains with those who worked alongside him. Whether as a selector identifying the next generation of Punjab stars or as a young pacer bowling for his country, Gill’s contribution to the sport will be remembered with respect. The cremation took place at the Manimajra Cremation Ground in Chandigarh, marking a final farewell to a life that ended far too soon.
