LAHORE – To keep alive the memories of Bob Woolmer, who died tragically during the 2007 World Cup, many memorial services were held at different churches in Karachi on his death anniversary on Friday. However, the PCB did not arrange any ceremony in memory of one of the most cherished coach of Pakistan team. Woolmer died on March 18, one day after Pakistan were knocked out of the 2007 World Cup by minnows Ireland in one of the biggest upsets in cricket history. Although initial reports suspected that he was murdered, Jamaican police later confirmed he had died of natural causes at the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica.
Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq urged his country’s World Cup squad not to forget Woolmer if they go on to win the tournament. “Woolmer’s death remains a sad chapter in Pakistan’s cricket history. Four years have passed since that day in Kingston, all of us still have fond memories of him,” former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq said. Inzamam was the captain in that World Cup and considered to be very close to Woolmer, who served as Pakistan coach between 2004 and 2007, building up close relationships with number of players.
Inzamam said the events that followed Woolmer’s death still haunt many players because some of them were treated like criminals by the Jamaican police.
“No one was more sad or shocked than the Pakistani players at Woolmer’s death. No one really understood that. It would be fitting if in this World Cup our team can win the title. It would be a great achievement after what happened in the last tournament,” he said. Inzamam said Woolmer was a great coach who brought innovation into the game. “Now when I see coaches using laptops, I remember Woolmer who was the first to use this innovation. At that time people laughed at his using laptops but now it’s a must for all coaches,” said Inzamam.
Pakistan leg-spinner Danish Kaneria said he still remembers the horrible moments when Woolmer was found unconscious in his hotel room. “It was terrible and what happened was worse because we were out of the World Cup and we also had to deal with so many false rumors. But I have no doubt he was one of the best coaches I have worked with.” Kaneria said it was important to remember Woolmer’s contribution to Pakistan cricket on his death anniversary and keep alive his memory. A statement by the Bob Woolmer Cricket Club said that a match will be staged in memory of the late coach after the ongoing Pentangular Cup.
