Former South African domestic cricketer dies aged 31

Mario Saliwa played for three teams in his domestic career

Former South African first-class cricketer Mario Saliwa who was stabbed last weekend has succumbed to his injuries. The 31-year-old played 67 first-class and 20 List A games for three teams - Free State, Kwa-Zulu Natal and Eagles between 2006 and 2010.

Lions coach Geoffrey Toyana knew the player personally and called him one of the most feared bowlers of his generation. He posted on Facebook about the player after his demise and revealed that he had potential to be South Africa’s next Makhaya Ntini.

"At some point in him we saw another Makhaya Ntini. We will always miss your bounce and unbelievable pace even the likes of Abongile Sudomo were not comfortable to face this guy," he said in his post.

"It is always tragic to see a young life being cut short in its prime. On behalf of the CSA family I extend our thoughts and condolences to his family, friends and cricketing colleagues," Haroon Lorgat, CSA CEO said.