Bengaluru: Sachin Tendulkar led tributes for former India fast bowler and teammate David Johnson, who tragically passed away here on Thursday. Tendulkar remembered Johnson as a spirited cricketer who approached the game with unwavering determination.
Johnson, aged 52, succumbed after falling from the fourth-floor balcony of his apartment, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities to ascertain the circumstances of his death, which may involve suicide.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my former teammate, David Johnson. His vibrant spirit and resilience on the field left a lasting impression. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Tendulkar shared on X (formerly Twitter).
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) also expressed its condolences for Johnson, who represented the state in 39 First-Class and 33 List A matches, claiming 125 and 41 wickets respectively.
“The compassionate Johnson will be sorely missed, marking a significant loss to Karnataka and Indian cricket,” the KSCA conveyed in a statement.
The KSCA extended condolences on behalf of its president, managing committee, executive committee, and staff to Johnson’s family and close associates.
Former India bowlers and Johnson’s state teammates Venkatesh Prasad and Anil Kumble also paid tribute on social media.
“I am shocked and saddened by David Johnson’s passing. My deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti,” Prasad expressed.
Kumble lamented, “I am saddened by the sudden loss of my cricketing colleague, David Johnson. My heartfelt condolences to his family. He departed too soon.”
Former India opening batsman Gautam Gambhir added, “I am saddened by David Johnson’s demise. May his family and loved ones find strength in this difficult time.”
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah also offered his respects.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contributions to the sport will be remembered,” Shah conveyed.
“Sad to hear about David Johnson’s passing. May his family and friends find strength. Om Shanti,” former India batsman and coach VVS Laxman said.
India and Karnataka batsman Mayank Agarwal expressed his grief, “I am deeply saddened by David Johnson’s demise, who made significant contributions to Karnataka cricket. May his family and loved ones find strength. Om Shanti.”
Virender Sehwag added, “I am deeply saddened by the news of David Johnson’s passing. My condolences to his family. Om Shanti.”
“Deeply saddened by David Johnson’s passing. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. #OmShanti,” former India spinner Pragyan Ojha wrote.
Former India and Bengal batsman Manoj Tiwary reflected on Johnson’s premature departure. “Former #TeamIndia fast bowler David Johnson has left us too soon at the age of 52. May his family find the strength to bear this loss. May his soul rest in peace,” Tiwary expressed.
