Devon Cricket Board - Clubs stunned by death of player

Clubs stunned by death of player

PLAYERS from both sides were left stunned by the death of veteran player Graham Hullet during last Saturday's F Division match between Chardstock and visiting Culmstock.

Culmstock were chasing 270 to win in the game and were 60 for four when Hullet was found unconscious in the pavilion.

Although he received first aid from one of the players before an ambulance crew arrived, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A heart-attack is the suspected cause of death for the 68-year-old batsman, who had only just been dismissed when he was found by a youngster in the pavilion.

Rob Hutchings, captain and secretary of Chardstock cricket club, said a young Culmstock player went to the pavilion to 'pad up' and found Hullett fine.

The youngster went to watch a few more deliveries before returning to the changing area to find his team-mate had passed out.

Chardstock player Gavin Churchill, a trained first responder, attempted to resuscitate the unconscious player.

'In less than 30 seconds he had CPR and an ambulance was there within five minutes, so if he stood any chance of surviving he got the best care,' Hutchings added.

Culmstock skipper Russell Geach said the team was 'devastated' by the death of a 'really friendly, likeable guy'.

Players have died before during matches in the Devon Cricket League, most notably former Torquay United footballer Terry Lee.

Lee, who was only 43, collapsed and died while playing for Barton 2nd XI during a match against Exeter in 1996.

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