A youth cricket fixture in northern India ended in tragedy when a swarm of bees descended upon the field, fatally injuring a senior umpire and causing widespread panic among players and spectators.
The incident occurred in Kanpur, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, during an Under-13 match at a local stadium on Wednesday. According to local officials, the game was proceeding normally when a large swarm of bees suddenly entered the ground, scattering players, match officials and members of the crowd.
The deceased has been identified as Manik Gupta, 65, a respected figure in the city’s cricketing circles. Mr Gupta had been associated with the Kanpur Cricket Association for nearly three decades and had officiated in numerous local and regional competitions. Witnesses said he was stung multiple times while attempting to move away from the swarm.
He was initially rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. As his condition deteriorated, doctors arranged for his transfer to a more advanced medical facility. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Another umpire, Jagdish Sharma, sustained serious injuries in the attack but is reported to be out of immediate danger. Several players and spectators also suffered bee stings; some required hospital treatment, while others were treated on site.
Incident Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh |
| Event | Under-13 cricket match |
| Deceased | Manik Gupta (65), umpire |
| Other Injuries | At least one umpire and multiple players/spectators |
| Immediate Cause | Sudden swarm of bees entering stadium |
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as the swarm enveloped parts of the field. Players reportedly dropped to the ground to shield themselves, while others sprinted towards dressing rooms and sheltered areas. Spectators fled the stands in confusion. Emergency services were called promptly, but the ferocity of the attack left several individuals injured within minutes.
Although such incidents are rare, this is not the first time bees have disrupted cricket in India. In 2019, a One Day fixture between India ‘A’ and England Lions in Thiruvananthapuram was temporarily halted after a swarm entered the stadium. On that occasion, play was suspended and resumed later, and no fatalities were recorded.
The death of Mr Gupta has cast a sombre shadow over Kanpur’s sporting community. Tributes have poured in from fellow officials and players, many describing him as dedicated, fair-minded and passionate about nurturing young cricketers. Local cricket administrators have pledged to review safety arrangements at venues, including inspections for potential bee hives and improved emergency protocols.
For a sport so often associated with discipline and composure, the shocking events in Kanpur serve as a stark reminder that unforeseen natural hazards can intrude even upon the most carefully organised competitions.