Umpire Dies in Unnao Cricket Match Bee Attack, Several Players Injured
A 65-year-old cricket umpire, Manik Gupta, tragically died in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, after a bee swarm attacked a junior league match. Several players and another umpire were also injured in the incident, which caused widespread panic and halted the game. Gupta was taken to multiple hospitals before being declared dead.
Key Highlights
- Umpire Manik Gupta died after a bee swarm attack during a cricket match.
- The incident occurred in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday evening.
- At least 15-20 players and another umpire were injured in the attack.
- Panic ensued, leading to the match being stopped mid-game.
- Gupta was taken to several hospitals before succumbing to his injuries.
- The Kanpur Cricket Association confirmed the umpire's death.
A 65-year-old cricket umpire, Manik Gupta, tragically lost his life following a severe bee swarm attack during a junior league cricket match in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. The incident took place on Wednesday evening at Sapru ground in Shuklaganj. Gupta, a senior umpire associated with the Kanpur Cricket Association (KCA) for nearly three decades, was officiating an under-13 match when the swarm descended upon the field.
The sudden and aggressive attack caused widespread panic among players, officials, and spectators. Eyewitnesses reported that the bees hovered around the field for approximately 10 minutes, fiercely stinging those present. Gupta sustained multiple bee stings and collapsed on the field while attempting to escape.
Following the attack, Gupta was initially rushed to a private hospital in Shuklaganj. As his condition deteriorated, he was referred to Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital (LLR) in Kanpur. Despite efforts to save him, doctors at the hospital declared him dead. Some reports indicate he was also taken to other medical facilities, including the Laxmipat Singhania Institute of Cardiology, before his death.
In addition to the umpire's death, the bee attack left another umpire and an estimated 15 to 20 players injured. The injured individuals received medical treatment, with most reported to be in stable condition. The intensity of the attack was so severe that bees were reportedly still clinging to Gupta's face and body as he was being transported to the hospital.
The Kanpur Cricket Association confirmed the incident and expressed deep sorrow over the loss. KCA Chairman Dr. Sanjay Kapoor described Gupta as a senior and experienced umpire and assured full support to the bereaved family. The association's president, S N Singh, also conveyed condolences and acknowledged the gravity of the attack.
The match, a KDMA league game between YMCC and Paramount, was disrupted and subsequently stopped midway due to the swarm. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures at local sports venues, with some calling for better precautions to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Manik Gupta was a respected figure in the local cricket community, having served on the KCA umpiring panel for about 30 years and officiating in numerous regional matches. He is survived by four daughters.
This tragic event highlights the unexpected dangers that can arise even during routine sporting events and serves as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictable power. The news was first reported on February 19, 2026, by various Indian news outlets, including The Economic Times, Udayavani, Telegraph India, The New Indian Express, India Today, Hindustan Times, Rediff.com, and others. The primary location of the incident is Unnao district in Uttar Pradesh, India. The event is of significant local and national interest within India due to the tragic loss of life and the unusual nature of the cause of death during a sporting event. The news falls under the categories of Crime, India, and Sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the cricket match in Unnao?
A severe bee swarm attacked players and officials during a junior league cricket match in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, leading to the death of umpire Manik Gupta and injuries to several others.
Who was the umpire who died?
The umpire who died was 65-year-old Manik Gupta, a senior umpire associated with the Kanpur Cricket Association for nearly 30 years.
How many people were injured?
Besides the umpire's death, another umpire and approximately 15 to 20 players sustained bee stings and injuries.
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred at Sapru ground in Shuklaganj, Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh.
What was the cause of the umpire's death?
The umpire died due to severe bee stings and the resulting complications after a swarm attacked him and others on the cricket ground.