Cricket News

Former Punjab Kings Cricketer Amanpreet Singh Gill Passes Away at 36

Siyan Sethi
· 4 min read

A Heartbreaking Loss for the Punjab Cricket Fraternity

In a deeply saddening development that has cast a shadow over the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, the cricket fraternity is mourning the loss of Amanpreet Singh Gill. The former Punjab cricketer and franchise alumni passed away on Wednesday, May 6, at the young age of 36. His untimely departure has left fans, teammates, and the cricketing establishment in a state of shock and grief.

Preity Zinta and Virat Kohli mourn the demise of Amanpreet Singh Gill

Remembering a Dedicated Servant of the Game

Born in September 1989 in Chandigarh, Amanpreet Singh Gill was a figure well-respected within the domestic circuit. His career was defined by his commitment to Punjab cricket, where he served not only as a pace bowler on the field but also as a dedicated administrator in his later years. At the time of his passing, he was actively contributing to the sport as a member of the Punjab senior selection committee, working to identify and groom the next generation of talent.

The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) released an official statement expressing their profound sorrow. The association noted: “Punjab Cricket Association deeply mourns the sad demise of Amanpreet Singh Gill, former Punjab cricketer and Member, Senior Selection Committee Punjab. 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 Rising Star Alongside Virat Kohli

For many cricket enthusiasts, Amanpreet Singh Gill is remembered for his promising start on the international stage during his youth. He was a key member of the India Under-19 setup in the mid-2000s, an era that produced several legends of the modern game. In July 2007, he was part of the squad that toured Sri Lanka for an U19 Tri-series, sharing the dressing room with future superstars like Virat Kohli and Manish Pandey.

During that specific series, Amanpreet showcased his bowling prowess, claiming nine wickets in just five matches. His standout performance came in the final against Bangladesh U19 in Colombo, where he delivered a match-winning spell of 2-14, helping India secure a comprehensive 129-run victory. These memories remain a testament to his undeniable skill and passion for fast bowling during his formative years.

Domestic Career and IPL Journey

Amanpreet Singh Gill was a staple in the Punjab domestic setup between the 2006-07 and 2008-09 Ranji Trophy seasons. Over the course of six first-class matches, he demonstrated the discipline and technical rigor required at the highest level of Indian domestic cricket. His ability to hit the deck hard and maintain consistency earned him a spot in the Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) franchise during the early, high-energy years of the IPL. While he did not feature in the final playing XI, he remained a valued part of the team’s ecosystem.

The Cricket World Pays Tribute

The news of his death hit the Punjab cricket circuit particularly hard. As the Punjab Kings prepare for their away fixture against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, expectations are high that the players will pay a poignant tribute to their former colleague, likely by wearing black armbands during the match.

The loss of a cricketer at such a young age serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life. As the IPL continues, the focus momentarily shifts from the intensity of the competition to the memory of a man who gave his best to the sport he loved. Amanpreet Singh Gill’s contributions to Punjab cricket, both as a fast bowler and as a selector, will not be forgotten by those who had the privilege of working alongside him. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his family find the strength to navigate this devastating loss.