Kerala football player Dhanarajan collapses during match, dies

Radhakrishnan Dhanarajan, who had played for big clubs like East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, died after collapsing during a Sevens match in Perinthalmanna, Kerala

Perinthalmanna (Kerala): In a tragic incident in Kerala, a footballer collapsed on the pitch during a match and died due to cardiac arrest.

Radhakrishnan Dhanarajan passed away during a seven-a-side match in Perinthalmanna, Kerala, on Sunday (December 29).

Dhanarajan, who had played for Mohun Bagan, was 39 years old. He was playing for FC Perinthalmanna against Sastha Medical FC Thrissur when he collapsed during the 27th minute of the Sevens football tournament match.

As per media reports, he was immediately rushed to a hospital but the doctors declared that he had already died before his arrival at the medical facility.

“We noticed Dhanarajan falling and rushed towards him. He was taken to hospital, but all hopes were over by then. Doctors said our friend died due to cardiac arrest,” tournament official and Dhanarajan’s friend Ameerudheen K told The Telegraph.

Indian Super League (ISL) side Kerala Blasters took to Twitter to offer condolences to the family and friends of Dhanarajan.

It wrote, "Gone, but not forgotten. The Kerala Blasters Family offers their condolences to the friends and family of Dhanarajan Radhakrishnan who passed away last evening during FC Perintalmanna's Sevens match last evening."

Mohun Bagan wrote, “The Mohun Bagan family deeply condole the sudden and sad demise of former Mohun Bagan Footballer Radhakrishnan Dhanarajan. May his holy soul rest in peace.”

Dhanarajan had also played for East Bengal, Mohammedan Sporting. He represented Kerala in Santosh Trophy.