The ICC and Abu Dhabi Cricket have led the tributes to the groundsman, who was found dead on Sunday (November 7) before New Zealand took on Afghanistan
Mohan Singh, the Zayed Cricket Stadium curator, has been found dead immediately prior to the men's T20 World Cup match between New Zealand and Afghanistan.
The 45-year-old was discovered in his room just hours before the game in Abu Dhabi.
Police has opened an investigation into the circumstances around the death, the cause of which has not been confirmed.
"It is with great sadness that Abu Dhabi Cricket announces that Head Curator, Mohan Singh, has passed away today," a statement read.
"Mohan has been with Abu Dhabi Cricket for 15 years and has played a pivotal role in all of the venue’s success during that time. Sunday’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 12 game between New Zealand and Afghanistan goes ahead as scheduled, with the support of Mohan's family and our groundstaff.
"Tributes to Mohan and his incredible achievements will be honoured in the coming days.
It is with great sadness that Abu Dhabi Cricket announces that Head Curator, Mohan Singh, has passed away today.
— Abu Dhabi Cricket (@AbuDhabiCricket) November 7, 2021
Mohan has been with Abu Dhabi Cricket for 15 years and has played a pivotal role in all of the venue’s success during that time.
(1/3) pic.twitter.com/9iklb9hkB5
"We ask for media to respect the privacy of Mohan's family at this tragic time."
The Mohali-native moved to Abu Dhabi in September 2004, having worked at the Punjab Cricket Stadium for 10 years.
An ICC spokesperson added of the chief curator: "We are deeply saddened and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, Abu Dhabi Cricket and everyone connected with the event."
The meeting between New Zealand and Afghanistan went ahead as scheduled, with the Kiwis prevailing by eight wickets.
The Abu Dhabi venue is set to host the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup involving England on Wednesday (November 10).
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Image courtesy of Twitter
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