Irish all-rounder Simi Singh is currently facing a severe health crisis, the Ireland cricket board announced.
Singh, 37, has represented Ireland in 35 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 53 T20 Internationals (T20Is), known for his spin bowling and contributions in the lower-middle order. His last appearance for Ireland came during the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, while his most recent competitive game was a year ago for Leinster Lightning in the Inter-Pro List A competition.
Cricket Ireland CEO Warren Deutrom released a heartfelt statement expressing the organisation's shock at the news of Singh’s condition. Deutrom extended the support of the entire Irish cricket community, wishing Singh strength in his battle. He accentuated Singh’s commitment and passion for Irish cricket, both at the international and domestic levels, and expressed hope that the same determination will help him overcome this challenge.
Details regarding the illness are not yet known.
Over his career, Singh has claimed 39 wickets in ODIs at an average of 25.92, with an economy rate of just 3.99. In T20Is, he has taken 44 wickets at an average of 27.84 and an economy of 7.61. Singh enjoyed a particularly outstanding 2021, where he took 19 ODI wickets at 20.15 and recorded his best ODI batting performance with an unbeaten 100 off 91 balls in a high-scoring chase against South Africa, although Ireland fell short. His performance that year earned him a place in ESPNcricinfo's men’s ODI Team of the Year.