A tragic plane crash on June 12, 2025, involving an Air India Boeing 787-8 from Ahmedabad to London claimed the lives of 274 people after the aircraft struck a medical college hostel. One of the victims was Dirdh Patel, a 23-year-old cricketer who had recently earned his MSc in Artificial Intelligence. His passing was confirmed by the BBC and the Wharfedale Senior Cricket League.
The League expressed deep sadness and remembered Dirdh’s contributions to Leeds Modernians CC, where he played as the overseas player in 2024, achieving 312 runs and taking 29 wickets in 20 matches. The club will hold a minute of silence. Dr. George Bargiannis from the University of Huddersfield remembered Dirdh as an exceptional individual.