23-year-old cricketer Dirdh Patel confirmed among victims in Air India crash

23-year-old Dirdh Patel, a young cricketer and recent graduate of the University of Huddersfield, was among the 240 people who lost their lives in the recent Air India Flight AI171 crash outside the Ahmedabad airport. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, resulting in the loss of 241 lives. Only one passenger survived what has now been described as one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in recent Indian history.

Among the passengers was Dirdh, a student originally from Gujarat, who had recently completed a Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence. Apart from his academics, Patel was playing for Leeds Modernians Cricket Club in the UK. As an overseas player in the 2024 season, I scored 312 runs and took 29 wickets in just 20 matches. Dr George Bargiannis, a reader in artificial intelligence at the University of Huddersfield and one of Patel’s lecturers, spoke highly of his late student.

"Mr Patel was someone I came to know not just for his academic abilities, but for his warmth, passion, and enthusiasm. Dirdh was an exceptional individual, always intellectually curious, coming to me during classes with questions that showed deep understanding and commitment. He had a clear ability to see the bigger picture and how his learning could lead to making a positive impact in the world.

His loss is a devastating reminder of how fragile life can be. My thoughts are with his family, friends, fellow students, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory continue to inspire those of us who had the privilege of sharing a part of his life," Dr Bargiannis said as quoted on the BBC.

Clubs observe minute of silence in tribute

Leeds Modernians Cricket Club, where Dirdh played during his short time in the UK, issued a statement and gave their heartfelt tribute. "The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Dirdh's family and everyone who knew him," the club stated.

A spokesperson for the Airedale and Wharfedale Senior Cricket League added that Patel had plans to continue playing cricket after starting his professional career. His brother, Krutik, who played for the Pool Cricket Club, was also remembered during the weekend matches as both clubs observed a minute’s silence in tribute.