Cricketing world reacts to Van Schoor’s passing

Tributes and condolences have been pouring in from the cricketing world following the untimely death of Namibian cricketer Raymond van Schoor.

The 25-year-old Van Schoor suffered a stroke in a match against Free State last Sunday and was taken to hospital by ambulance. Van Schoor’s condition deteriorated, as he went into ICU before passing away at 19h17 on Friday evening.

The cricket world reacted with shock and dismay on social media with messages streaming in from top players, administrators, team mates, opponents, friends and cricket followers.

South African star AB de Villiers, currently ranked the top batsman in the world, led tributes from South Africa, which included other Protea players Vernon Philander, Alviro Petersen, Dane Piedt, Robin Peterson and Cameron Delport.

Other cricketing greats like Shahid Afridi of Pakistan and Rahul Dravid of India sent their condolences, as did numerous players from around the world that played against Raymond.

The International Cricket Council’s Chief Executive David Richardson led tributes from some administrators of the game which included Tony Irish, executive chairman of the Federation of International Cricketers Association, ICC referee Dev Govindjee, West Indies coach Phil Simmons, and cricket associations from Nepal, Hong Kong and Jersey.

Govindjee also posted a photo of players of Hong Kong and Oman holding a minutes silence before their match in Abu Dhabi this morning.

Many other tributes were streaming in by Saturday lunch time.

Here are some of the messages:

Last night we did not only say goodbye to a dear friend, but to a teammate and a brother. Ray you were always known as a fighter and someone that never stood back from a challenge, and you were fighting right up until the final moments. We never understand these things, but we have to know that God has a plan for all of us, even though we do not always agree. A role model, leader, great laugh in the change room and just an amazing guy to be a part of your life. We will meet again someday and laugh at all those great moments on, and off the field. But until then, rest softly buddy.

R.I.P. Ray

You will be sorely missed. – Namibian cricket captain Stephen Baard.

Sad news about Raymond van Schoor. Thoughts and prayers with family, friends and team mates. – AB de Villiers

Sad news for the cricket family losing Raymond van Schoor. My thoughts and prayers are with your family, friends and Namibian cricket. – Vernon Philander.

So sad. Lovely happy young man. Super bat for the national team. Taken too young. May you rest in peace Raymond. – Niall O Brien.

In memory of Raymond van Schoor. Minute’s silence. Hong Kong v Oman at Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi. – Dev Govindjee.

Saddened to hear of the sudden death of Raymond van Schoor. – Tom Moody

Terribly shocking news to hear of the passing of Raymond van Schoor. Thoughts with his family, friends and all. – Jersey Cricket Board.

Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of a true gentleman and great player, Raymond van Schoor. Thoughts with all his loved ones. – Hong Kong Cricket Association.

Sad news for the cricket family losing Raymond van Schoor. My thoughts and prayers are with your family, friends and Cricket Namibia. – Cameron Delport

Very sad to hear that Namibian player Raymond van Schoor has passed away. Condolences to his family on behalf of our players. – Tony Irish, executive chairman of the Federation of International Cricketers Association and head of the SA Cricketers Association.

Saddened by the news of the passing of this legend of Namibian cricket, you will be missed dearly Rayzor. – Christi Viljoen

Really sad about Raymond van Schoor. The cricketing world mourns yet another loss to our wonderful game. Thoughts with his family. – Alviro Petersen.

Its so devastating when a life is cut at 25. My prayers are with the family and friends of Raymond van Schoor. – Phil Simmons.

I am shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Raymond van Schoor. – ICC CEO David Richardson.

Speechless after hearing of the passing away of Raymond van Schoor. You were just 25 but never look back. – Rahul Dravid.

Raymond van Schoor you will be missed my friend! RIP. To all Namibian cricketers stay strong boys Im terribly sorry for your loss. – Wesley Barresi.

Shocking news that Raymond van Schoor has passed away, thoughts go out to his family and friends. – Kyle Coetzer.

Raymond van Schoor was a titan for Namibian cricket. One of three Namibians (Gerrie Snyman and Craig Williams) to score 4 000 First Class runs, 2 500 List A runs and 1 000 T20 runs. – Peter Della Penna.

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